Everyone has marked the dates. The India vs. Pakistan match at the ICC Champions Trophy will be played on February 23, and the entire cricket world is eagerly waiting. The heavyweight battle is often an even bigger occasion than the semifinal or final of the tournament. The quality of cricket isn’t always the highest, but the tension and intensity are.
No bad blood
It’s a match that can define your career as a cricketer. Names are made on that day. Despite everything on the line, for some time the rivalry has lacked aggression for some. There aren’t any verbal battles. No sledging. Smiles all around, before and after the match.
For these reasons, Azam Khan, one of Pakistan’s most explosive batters, feels that the India vs. Pakistan rivalry isn’t there on the field. Both teams play like it’s another match. The players aren’t at each other’s throats, and respect remains there present at all times.
“The rivalry is outside the field. If you look at the past few India-Pakistan matches, they have been played in a very friendly manner. There is no disrespect there. There is a respectful relationship between the players. If you are getting the respect from one side, then your job is to reciprocate that,” Azam Khan told Hindustan Times.
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Who will win the India vs Pakistan match?
Naturally, as a Pakistani, Azam wished the Men in Blue the best of luck. However, when asked which team he thinks would win, the wicketkeeper batter gave a diplomatic answer.
“I wish the Pakistan team the best of luck. India versus Pakistan is just a game in the end. There are so many expectations because it is a high-voltage game. The team that commits the least number of mistakes will walk away as the winner,” Azam Khan added.
