Even though India are the favorites to win the T20 World Cup 2026, one has to admit, that all the pressure is on the hosts; and so feels former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar. What is interesting to note is, India had suffered a loss to South Africa at this very venue, a few days back, where they were bundled out for 111.
IND vs NZ, T20 World Cup final
And of course, not a single Indian fan can forget the 2023 World Cup final loss to Australia, that came at the same venue. Akhtar said that, not only there will be pressure of 132000 spectators, but also of the massive Indian population, that will be backing their team to win.
The Pakistani also pointed out, what the safe score will be on the Ahmedabad pitch. “If the wicket at Ahmedabad grips and if it’s favourable for spinners, the par score will be around 200 or 175. Safe score would be 200 plus only,” he said on Game on Hai. “Now, will New Zealand be able to score 250 or 225 against India? If they do, India will be under a lot of pressure,” he added.
Shoaib Akhtar says..
The 1999 WC finalist added that the Kiwis winning the title could be good for the sport. “It’s also clear as daylight that India will also come full prepared. I feel New Zealand may get bogged down in front of India, but India also have pressure of 1.5 billion people. They have already lost a match at Ahmedabad to Australia in the World Cup final.“
“I see India as the winner out of all this, but for cricket’s sake, it’s high time New Zealand should win this World Cup.” On the other hand, Umar Gul brought out a valid point, that NZ bowling looks stronger for now. “New Zealand bowling attack appears stronger. India can be under pressure due to the home team’s big population,” Gul said.
“New Zealand recently won a series in India (Test series). They have experience with spin track, and India may also think that these guys played well against us and defeated us. New Zealand will have confidence. It will be a good final.”
