Follow UsThe ICC Champions Trophy begins on February 19, and the buildup to the marquee tournament is heating up. India and Pakistan will play each other on February 23 in Dubai, and huge viewership both in the stadium and on the broadcast is expected for the high-profile clash.
However, Pakistan’s vice-captain, Salman Ali Agha, felt that despite the game's enormity, winning that one game and losing the tournament despite having the home advantage would be disappointing.
“The Pakistan-India match is the biggest, but winning the Champions Trophy is more important,” Agha said.
“If we beat India but don’t win the tournament, that win holds no value. However, if we lose to India but lift the trophy, that’s a bigger achievement. Our goal is to perform well and win.”
This is the first time that the ICC Champion Trophy has been held in Pakistan, and the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Stadium in Karachi have been renovated to host the tournament. Agha, who hails from Lahore, said that the Pakistan team has the potential to lift the trophy at home.
“I am excited for the Champions Trophy—Pakistan hosting an ICC event is special,” the allrounder remarked.
“As a Lahore native, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true. The Pakistan team has the potential to win.”
Agha has been in really good touch going into the Champions Trophy and has been at the helm of Pakistan’s spirited run in ODIs, where they have defeated Australia and South Africa in away conditions.
“I am really enjoying cricket and the new role given to me. Being vice-captain comes with responsibility but also a sense of freedom,” he said.
“The victories in Australia and South Africa gave me a lot of confidence, and I always prepare thoroughly a day before the match.”
Pakistan will begin their campaign in the Champions Trophy on February 19 against New Zealand, who defeated them recently in the final of the recent tri-series that also involved South Africa.