ISLAMABAD: As the much-awaited Asia Cup 2023 showdown between Pakistan and India draws near, Captain Babar Azam has cautioned the opposition about the formidable bowling attack of his team.
On Sunday (tomorrow), the arch-rivals will compete in the Super 4 match in Colombo, Sri Lanka. During the event, the national side has played one match in Sri Lanka and two in Pakistan so far.
The skipper emphasized the significance of fast bowlers in winning matches and tournaments during a press conference. He expressed pride in the pacers’ performance and noted that the key to their success lies in mutual trust and self-belief.
Babar also addressed the challenges of constant travel during the tournament, highlighting the importance of player well-being. He mentioned their extensive traveling schedule, moving between Sri Lanka and Pakistan multiple times, and the upcoming match against India in Colombo.
Regarding the weather, Babar expressed optimism about clear skies for tomorrow’s match in Colombo.
“The way the sun is shining, it seems it will not rain tomorrow,” he said. He further added that training was in the hands of the team and they were diligently preparing for it.
Babar said, “Our bowling start is good and middlemen are also trying to do well. We need to get wickets in the middle overs but we are finishing well.”
He discussed the team’s performance, emphasizing the strength of their bowling and the need for improvement in the middle overs.
Babar mentioned their experimentation with different player combinations, including the inclusion of fast bowler Faheem Ashraf against Bangladesh.
Babar stated that their selection process was well-considered, and they aimed for the betterment of the team and its success. He also hinted at the squad’s almost finalized status for the World Cup and the team’s focus on winning matches and tournaments, emphasizing unity and teamwork.
Remaining Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 matches
9 Sept – Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
10 Sept – Pakistan vs India in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
12 Sept – India vs Sri Lanka in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
14 Sept – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
15 Sept – India vs Bangladesh in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)
Asia Cup 2023 Final
Sept 17 – Final in Colombo at 2:30 pm (PST)