Former Pakistan fast bowlers Waqar Younis and Wasim Akram have shared their predictions ahead of the much-anticipated Pakistan-India match at Nassau County International Stadium in New York.
Waqar Younis, analysing the conditions, highlighted that the New York pitch favours faster bowlers, potentially levelling the playing field between the two teams.
"My heart says Pakistan, but from what I’ve seen so far in this tournament, the pitch in New York is very much for the faster bowlers. So, it evens it out a little bit just purely because of the surface in New York," Waqar said.
In contrast, Wasim Akram leaned towards India, giving them a 60% chance of winning against Pakistan. He noted India's overall form and status as favourites for the match.
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"If we look at India’s form, India generally are a better team. Better team in a way that they’re favourites heading into that game. I will give 60% to India and 40% to Pakistan. But, it’s T20I, one good innings, one good spell, the game can change quickly. I think everybody is looking forward to the game of the tournament," Wasim said.
It is worth noting that the Men in Green had a rough start to their T20 World Cup campaign, losing to the co-hosts in a super over. Meanwhile, the Indian team began their journey with a win against Ireland.
The Green Shirts suffered a major setback this morning as the inclusion of all-rounder Shadab Khan in the playing XI is now in doubt due to a reported injury.
In Shadab's potential absence, Saim Ayub is likely to replace him in the team. Additionally, Imad Wasim is expected to take the place of Azam Khan, and leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed might be included in the squad, possibly giving rest to one of the fast bowlers.
The match kicks off in a few hours at 7:30pm Pakistan Standard Time (PST).
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