Follow UsThe drama between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup doesn’t seem to end, as the Pakistan team has continued the trend of not sending anyone to attend the pre-match press conference for an India game. As a result, the heat between the two sides and around the India-Pakistan contest on Sunday, September 21, hasn’t dissipated away.
Fascinatingly, no communication or clarification was issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding this. Meanwhile, Andy Pycroft, the match referee who came in the middle of the handshake controversy, will be the match referee for the clash on Sunday as well, despite PCB’s reservations against him. Notably, Pycroft had a conversation with PCB manager and officials to remove the miscommunication if any.
Suryakumar Downplays India - Pakistan Rivalry
India had defeated Pakistan with ease in the group stage game, displaying the gulf in skill sets of both sides. However, the handshake controversy put a damper on that a bit as other issues took over.
Now, ahead of the second game against Pakistan, which is a crucial Super 4 encounter, skipper Suryakumar Yadav has downplayed the rivalry and said that his team would aim to entertain the audience who comes to watch.
“If we talk about rivalry, I don't know what kind of rivalry you are talking about,” the Indian skipper said in the pre-match press conference.
“After going on the ground, I feel that the stadium is full. And when the stadium is full, I tell my team and everyone that it is time for entertainment.
"So many people have come to watch the match, so you have to entertain everyone. Let's play some good brand of cricket. And according to me, we don't think much.”