In the cricketing world, there are battles, and then there is the epic showdown between India and Pakistan. The stage is set, the players are ready, and the cricketing universe is buzzing with excitement for the much-anticipated clash in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
The Rivalry Renewed
- Who: India vs. Pakistan
- When: Saturday, October 14, 2 pm (08:30 GMT)
- Where: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, India
This match is more than just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a rivalry that transcends boundaries, and a spectacle that captures the imagination of millions. The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad will be the theater for this cricketing extravaganza.
Records, Rivalries, and Redemption
Pakistan, the champions of the 1992 World Cup, find themselves in a familiar position – facing off against their regional rival, India. However, history has not been kind to Pakistan in World Cup encounters with India. In the 50-over format, Pakistan has never managed to secure a victory against India.
Captain Babar Azam, though, is undaunted by the past. With a determined spirit, he looks forward to scripting a new chapter in the rivalry.
“I don’t think about the past; I’d rather focus on the future,” Babar said, wearing a confident smile. “All records are meant to be broken, and we’ll try to break this record tomorrow.”
Unbeaten Warriors
Both India and Pakistan enter this monumental clash with a perfect record. In the initial stages of the tournament, India overcame five-time champions Australia and Afghanistan with remarkable victories.
Pakistan, on the other hand, claimed victory over the Netherlands in their first game and pulled off a historic run chase against Sri Lanka. The winning momentum is with both teams.
Babar Azam encouraged his team to seize the opportunity, to perform at their best, and to etch their names in the annals of cricket history.
“India-Pakistan match is a big game, a high-intensity contest. I’ve told my boys it’s a great opportunity – give your best, execute your plans and believe in yourself,” he emphasized.
Spectacle of a Century
One of the talking points of this World Cup has been the attendance, with many matches witnessing half-empty stands. However, that won’t be an issue on Saturday. The Narendra Modi Stadium, with its colossal capacity, is expected to host over 100,000 cricket enthusiasts, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.
Babar Azam expressed his team’s eagerness to shine on the grand stage. “Pakistan are aiming to put on their best show in front of a big crowd at the massive stadium,” he declared.
Head-to-Head Tussle
In the larger context of One-Day Internationals, Pakistan holds a head-to-head advantage with 73 wins compared to India’s 56. However, when it comes to the Cricket World Cup, the scale tips heavily in India’s favor. Pakistan has yet to secure a victory over India in ICC ODI World Cup history, having faced them seven times.
Form Guide
Both teams have showcased their prowess in this tournament, with two wins each.
India kicked off their campaign with a low-scoring victory against Australia, followed by a commanding win over Afghanistan.
Pakistan demonstrated their resilience in their opening match against the Netherlands and their batting prowess in a record-breaking run chase against Sri Lanka.
Team News
India welcomes back opener Shubman Gill, who missed the initial games due to dengue fever. Gill is expected to sit out the Pakistan match, with Ishan Kishan continuing to open alongside Rohit Sharma. India is also considering the return of off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.
For Pakistan, the batting reshuffle against Sri Lanka, featuring Abdullah Shafique’s remarkable century, adds depth to their lineup. Fakhar Zaman, who has been out of form, is likely to remain on the bench, while Pakistan relies on captain Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan for their batting prowess.
The Lineup
India:
- Ishan Kishan
- Rohit Sharma (Captain)
- Virat Kohli
- KL Rahul (Wicket-Keeper)
- Shreyas Iyer
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
Pakistan:
- Abdullah Shafique
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Babar Azam
- Muhammad Rizwan
- Saud Shakeel
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Shadab Khan
- Hasan Ali
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Haris Rauf
As the clock ticks down to this colossal clash, cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly anticipate a spectacle that transcends sport itself. India vs. Pakistan – a rivalry, a showdown, and a celebration of cricket like no other.