As Pakistan get ready for his or her high-stakes Champions Trophy showdown towards Republic of India on Sunday, former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and cricketer Ramiz Raja believes their underdog situation may paintings to their benefit.
In his column for Break of day, Raja urged that Republic of India’s top-order vulnerabilities and strategic bowling changes may not hidden the door for a Pakistan disenchanted on the Dubai Global Stadium.
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“India already have a victory under their belt, beating Bangladesh in their first game. Pakistan, desperate to get off the mark, will enter the much-awaited game as the underdogs. But that can actually be an advantage because it allows them to play without much pressure,” Raja mentioned.
Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat towards Fresh Zealand of their opening sport, escape them in a must-win condition. Then again, Raja famous that Republic of India’s batting mainstays, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, don’t seem to be in peak method.
“India’s batting mainstays Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are not currently in great form, and if Shubman Gill — who scored a century to guide India to victory against Bangladesh — gets out early, Pakistan will have a good chance to slow down India’s scoring,” he mentioned.
Raja highlighted their failure to rotate the crash successfully, pointing to the staggering 145 dot balls year chasing 320. “The top order often takes too long to start scoring and taking risks, worrying about getting out. This fearful mindset hinders the team’s ability to set or chase targets,” he noticed.
Pakistan’s bowling assault additionally wishes a sharper manner. Raja criticised their day bowlers for missing selection and keep an eye on underneath drive. “Where are the yorkers, the slower bouncers, or subtle variations? The spinners have been bowling too fast and defensively. That will need to change,” he warned.
In spite of Pakistan’s early setback, Raja rest positive. “It wasn’t the ideal start, but when playing against India, Pakistan often rise to the occasion and play with great passion for their country and fans. However, it is also important for them to stay calm under pressure and effectively follow their bowling plans, especially in the final stages of the match.”
With a sold-out stadium anticipated to be ruled by means of Indian supporters, Raja sees the drive as a possible motivator for Pakistan. “On Sunday, there will be added pressure. The stadium will be packed with more Indian fans than Pakistan fans. It would be a great day to win against the odds!” he concluded.
