The anticipation is reaching its peak as India and Pakistan gear up for their historic clash in the 2023 World Cup. Beyond the rich history between these arch-rivals, it’s the remarkable consistency shown by both teams in this tournament that’s adding to the excitement. One player who promises to be a game-changer in this epic showdown is Pakistan’s star fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Over the years, he has proven to be a thorn in India’s side, although he faced a tough time during their encounter in the Asia Cup earlier this year. As the countdown to the India-Pakistan clash in Ahmedabad continues, both teams are going through their final preparations at the colossal Narendra Modi Stadium.
Shaheen Afridi, a crucial member of the Pakistan squad, appears to have set the tone for this high-voltage match. According to reports including the one carried by RevSportz, some members of the media asked Afridi for a selfie as he left the training ground. In response, Afridi confidently stated, “Zaroor selfie loonga, but five wicket lene ke baad [I’d be happy to take one, but only after I’ve claimed five wickets].” RevSportz has quited the left-arm pacer as saying the same.
While the left-arm pacer hasn’t been at his best in this World Cup so far, he will fancy his chances against the hosts against whom he has done well in the past. The Indian top-order too has struggled against left-arm swing bowling in general but if they find a way to negotiate his spell with the new ball, India are expected to hold the advantage. Shaheen’s new-ball partner Naseem Shah who troubled India in Asia Cup 2023 is not in Pakistan’s World Cup squad due to an injury. In Naseem’s absence, Hasan Ali has been featuring in Pakistan’s playing 11 and is expected to retain his place in the side. Haris Rauf completes Pakistan’s fronline pace-bowling attack.