Playing against Pakistan means a lot to Indian cricketers, and it’s no secret that everyone wants to give their best. Once again, cricket fans of all age groups have surely marked 23rd February on their calendars, and why not? India is set to face arch-rivals Pakistan in the Champions Trophy clash, which is expected to be a thriller just like previous encounters.
If we compare, it’s the T20 World Cup games that have been nail-biters, while in 50-over cricket, the Indian team has consistently dominated the Shaheens, and they will look to do it again. Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the Champions Trophy, recently released a video featuring Indian superstars, from former captain Virat Kohli to current captain Rohit Sharma, also Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, and Hardik Pandya, all sharing their experiences of playing against their neighbours. It seems they also feel the goosebumps, just like the fans watching the game on television or at the stadium.
What are Indian cricketers saying about Pakistan ahead of Champions Trophy?
Virat Kohli on Pakistan
“We are different countries, and we have different jerseys, but the game only knows the basics, and you reap the rewards of hard work. It’s the environment within the stadium that elevates your performance differently, and that’s exactly the case when we play against Pakistan, more than any other team”.
Rohit Sharma on Pakistan
“They are a good team and have been playing good cricket for the past few years, especially in limited-overs cricket. Since the Dubai ground used to be their home space, they have played a lot of games in the UAE, and surely, it will be a good game”.
Hardik Pandya on Pakistan
“Pakistan has been the team against whom I am fortunate to have performed well. I have been consistent over the years, and hopefully, I can continue the same”.
Ravindra Jadeja on Pakistan
“They are an international team with talented players, but in the end, it’s all about giving 100 per cent effort on the ground, and the team that plays better wins the game”.
Rishabh Pant and Kuldeep Yadav on Pakistan
While Kuldeep Yadav mentioned that we haven’t played many games against Pakistan, which is why many people have high expectations from us to do well, Rishabh Pant added that since people remember the India vs Pakistan games for a long time, everyone wants us to make the match memorable by performing well.
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