Former Pakistan bowler Shoaib Akhtar reckons that the side’s do-or-die Champions Trophy clash against India will be very difficult. The “Rawalpindi Express” lamented the lack of an attacking mindset displayed by Rizwan and co. in their opening game against New Zealand. The hosts were handed a 60-run thrashing, putting their chances of reaching the knockout stages in jeopardy.
“Very difficult”: Akthar on Pakistan’s chances in IND vs PAK
In a video on Instagram, Akhtar did not hold back his thoughts on Pakistan’s lacklusture performance. He said that given how the team was playing, they have now landed themselves in a do-or-die position in the clash with India. He said that Pakistan’s chances look very bleak, given that the Indian team was strong. He advised Rizwan and co. to go on the offensive and try aiming for a win.
“Pakistan is now in a do-or-die situation against India. The Indian team is very strong and looks difficult. I still wish Pakistan the best of luck. They should go on the offensive and try winning the contest. You have no option but to play very aggressively. But not like this. Wish them best of luck but looks very difficult now,” Akhtar said.
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“You all saw the match, you would be disappointed just like me. Pakistan is playing completely different cricket compared to what the rest of the world is doing. There are no impact players, strike rate is very slow. They don’t even play run-a-ball. We leak a lot of runs. Pakistan are playing with just 4 bowlers while the rest of the sides play with at least 6-7 bowlers. It is a disappointing start,” he added.
Pakistan and India will lock horns on February 23 in Dubai. While Pakistan lost their opening match, India will take on Bangladesh in their tournament opener on Thursday.
