Follow UsFormer Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi feels India have far more match-winners than the Men in Green. The two teams will collide against each other in Dubai on February 23 (Sunday). While Pakistan lost to New Zealand in the tournament opener, India started their campaign with an impressive six-wicket against Bangladesh.
"If we talk about match-winners, I'd say that India has more match-winners compared to Pakistan. A match-winner is someone who knows how to win the game single-handedly. Right now, we don’t have such players in Pakistan," Afridi said on a special episode of JioHotstar’s Greatest Rivalry Returns.
"India's strength lies in its middle and lower order, which has been winning them matches. For a long time, we have been giving opportunities to players, but no one has stepped up consistently. Some have performed in a few games, but we don’t have players who have sustained their performance for a year, two years, or across 50-60 matches.
“That’s where we are a little weaker compared to India, which is very strong in this area. But the key to winning against India is collective performance—whether it's the batsmen, bowlers, or spinners—everyone’s contribution is crucial.”
Pakistan must defeat India to stay alive in the tournament, but it won’t be easy, considering they have already lost Fakhar Zaman. The dynamic opener got injured against New Zealand and has been ruled out of the event.
Afridi said skipper Mohammad Rizwan will have to lead from the front if Pakistan want to make a comeback in the 50-over competition. "As a captain, Rizwan has to set an example for others—that is very important. He must perform in every game, and his attitude, body language, and leadership matter a lot. Being a captain comes with equal amounts of praise and criticism.
“His performance will be crucial, as he is the glue that holds the team together. He treats everyone equally, he is a fighter, and his energy on the field is infectious. I have seen him step up in big matches, and I am confident he will lead the team well.”