As the excitement builds for the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the upcoming Champions Trophy, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina shared his thoughts on the high-stakes encounter.
As excitement builds for the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the upcoming Champions Trophy, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina shares his thoughts on the high-stakes encounter. Speaking about the intense rivalry, Raina reminisces about past performances while emphasizing the key factors that could determine the outcome.
Reflecting on a memorable moment from the tournament’s history, Raina said in the Star Sports Press Room, “When we talk about the Champions Trophy, I remember Mohammed Amir’s spell. He got the wickets of Rohit and Virat.”
Raina said, “I think both of them will have a fifty percent chance. Virat Kohli will come again and win it for India; his performance will be out of the box.”
But he also admitted that Pakistan has a good bowling attack.
“I think Pakistan has a better bowling attack. We both have left-arm fast bowlers, but the kind of passion they play with and whenever they play in Dubai, they get the home advantage,” Raina noted.
He elaborated on Pakistan’s familiarity with Dubai’s conditions, saying, “Pakistan has played a lot of cricket in Dubai, and we have also lost a World Cup game there. But this scenario will be different because Rohit Sharma knows these matches with Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand are crucial.”
Regarding the significance of India’s top-order batting, Raina said, “I think top three–Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli–one of these batsmen will have to play till the 35th over. Then we have those kinds of batsmen who can play big shots.”
The rivalry between India and Pakistan has always elicited immense emotions among fans and players. Raina said, “There is a different kind of passion for India versus Pakistan. Many people from Delhi might plan to go to Dubai to watch matches.”
