'My heart says Pakistan but...': Waqar Younis stirs the pot with bold prediction on IND vs PAK's T20 World Cup encounter

The cricket world is buzzing ahead of the India versus Pakistan's T20 World Cup clash. The high-voltage showdown between Asian cricket powerhouses promises fireworks at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on June 9. Team India, led by Rohit Sharma are brimming with confidence after their dominating eight-wicket victory over Ireland in their opening match. Meanwhile, Pakistan's team under Babar Azam will be looking to bounce back after a surprising Super Over loss to co-hosts USA. There's much anticipation building for the upcoming India versus Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2024. India heads into the encounter on a high note, boasting an impressive unbeaten streak in their last five T20I games. Pakistan, on the other hand, has had a bumpier road, losing three out of their last five matches. This puts pressure on them to find their winning form quickly.

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Many cricket experts predict India has a strong chance to dominate this historic clash. However, former Pakistani fast bowler Waqar Younis offers a different perspective. He emphasizes the playing conditions at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.  According to Waqar, the lively pitch will create a balanced contest, favoring neither batsmen nor bowlers excessively. This even playing field, he believes, will allow both India and Pakistan to showcase their full potential on Sunday.

“My heart says Pakistan, but from what I’ve seen so far in this tournament, the pitch in New York is very much for the faster bowlers. So, it evens it out a little bit just purely because of the surface in New York,” Waqar Younis told Star Sports.

 

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Former Pakistani captain Wasim Akram weighed in on the highly anticipated showdown. Akram believes India has a clear advantage, giving them a 60% chance of victory. He highlights their recent dominant form and impressive performance as key factors. However, Akram acknowledges the unpredictability of T20 cricket. A single brilliant performance can turn the tide, making him, like many fans, eagerly await this epic clash between these historic rivals in New York.

 

“If we look at India’s form, India generally is a better team. Better team in a way that they’re favorites heading into that game. I will give 60% to India and 40% to Pakistan. But it’s T20I; with one good innings and one good spell, the game can change quickly. I think everybody is looking forward to the game of the tournament,” Wasim Akram concluded.

 

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