Wasim Akram picks favorites for India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash

Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram reckons India would be the favorites to win the Asia Cup clash against Pakistan on current form. However, the former Pakistan captain reckons the team that handles the pressure better will have a better chance of winning the high-octane clash.

India has been in terrific form in T20Is, winning series against England, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and South Africa. Furthermore, Jasprit Bumrah has been picked in the squad amid the workload management discussions.

On the other hand, Pakistan will be without the services of experienced players like Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, and Naseem Shah.

“I am sure these matches will be entertaining, just like all other Ind-Pak matches,” Akram told Telecom Asia Sport. “But I hope both the players and the fans will remain disciplined and not cross the line. If Indians are patriotic and want their team to win, the same goes for Pakistani fans. India have been in better form recently and will start as favourites, but the team that handles pressure best on the day will win.”

Recently, the Indian sports ministry put out a release that India won’t play any bilateral series against Pakistan after recent tensions. However, they gave a green signal to play Pakistan in the major ICC events, including the Asia Cup. Akram is hopeful that the bilateral ties between the two countries resumes soon and he wants to see a Test series between the rivals for the fans’ sake.

“This Asia Cup will be a feast for fans worldwide. It’s my wish that India and Pakistan also resume playing a Test series. It’s been too long, and it would be a historic spectacle for fans on both sides,” Akram said.

India and Pakistan will take on each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, on 14th September.