The forthcoming Asia Cup 2023 is quickly approaching, with play set to start on Wednesday, August 30. The intense rivalry between India and Pakistan, two important teams in the competition, has fans buzzing with anticipation and excitement. Wasim Akram, the former captain of Pakistan, has offered his take and warned against underestimating the other competing teams.
The excitement is growing as the Asia Cup 2023 is just around the horizon, with kick-off scheduled for Wednesday, August 30. Fans are trembling with anticipation as the titans of the subcontinent – India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal – gear up to battle it out in this major event. The tournament holds a unique significance as it’s a critical starting point for the nations gearing up for the ODI World Cup in 2023, due to take place in October and November.
The Asia Cup 2023 will experience a stirring start when the Indian cricket team takes on arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2. Memories of the past remain, where India’s campaign was cut short at the Super Fours stage last year following defeats to Pakistan and Sri Lanka. With the drive in their hearts, Rohit Sharma’s players will be looking to transcend that disappointment and make their mark on the competition.
Certainly, the confrontation between India and Pakistan never fails to electrify cricket aficionados, given the passionate history of their rivalry. However, it’s crucial not to forget the potential powerhouses in Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, who are more than capable of delivering surprises on the field. The stage is set, and cricket fans are in for a treat as the teams compete for supremacy in this much-awaited competition.
Wasim Akram also mentioned that in the competition, no team will come in as a clear favorite. He pointed out that all the teams taking part are formidable and have the potential to defeat any other team when they’re performing at their best.
“This is a good idea by ACC to have a 50-over Asia Cup because right after it we have the World Cup. It is a long tournament — not a one-off that you can enter the semi-finals after winning one game. You have to win games to get on top. You have to take it game by game. Also, it is a 50-over competition (this time) not T20, which means a different mindset and fitness will be required,” said Wasim Akram as quoted by PTI.
He added: “Last time we had predicted an India versus Pakistan final but Sri Lanka won the competition. All three teams are dangerous — anyone can win on their day. There are other teams competing too. Last time Sri Lanka won the title, India even failed to make it to the final,” Akram further added.
Additionally, when discussing the Indian team, Akram emphasized that India possesses a squad with a good balance. However, he also cautioned that Team India might encounter challenges in the upcoming Asia Cup 2023.
“I think they are trying different things, new players especially in the T20 format, also a new captain. They have a balanced squad. But it will not be easy for India or any team,” Akram said.
