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Ex-Pakistan captain has explained why Pakistan could have an edge over India within the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Babar Azam (L) and Rohit Sharma (R). (Image: AFP)
As Pakistan prepares to host its first ICC event in 29 years, the legendary batter Muhammad Yousuf has expressed his excitement and confidence within the national team’s ability to perform well on home soil.
The Champions Trophy, which kicks off with Pakistan’s clash against Recent Zealand at Karachi’s National Stadium on Wednesday, is a big moment for each the country and its cricketing future.
Yousuf praised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its remarkable effort in renovating all of the stadiums in record time, saying it was a testament to the board’s dedication to improving the game. “I’m very excited like every Pakistani. After 29 years, Pakistan is hosting an ICC event,” Yousuf told Samaa TV.
“Kudos to the PCB for the way in which they renovated all of the stadiums in six months. If Pakistan reaches the ultimate, they are going to play at home. I hope Pakistan cricket plays exactly the way in which the PCB has worked to arrange the stadiums.”
Despite the keenness surrounding the tournament, Yousuf stays realistic about Pakistan’s challenges, recognising Recent Zealand and India because the two most balanced teams within the competition. He highlighted Recent Zealand’s strength in subcontinent conditions, with a solid top order, a well-rounded spin attack, and quality fast bowlers.
“Recent Zealand looks like essentially the most balanced side. They’ve an excellent side as per the subcontinent conditions. They’ve three quality fast bowlers and good spinners. They’ve a solid top six in batting. The wicketkeeper is an all-rounder; they’ve two spin-bowling all-rounders,” said Yousuf.
India, too, are seen as a formidable opponent, but Yousuf believes Pakistan has the advantage of playing on home turf, which could prove to be an important factor. “India, too, have a balanced side. Pakistan have the sting because they’re playing in home conditions. But they should play calculated cricket within the tournament.”
Reflecting on Pakistan’s recent performances, Yousuf offered some invaluable advice to the team. “Now we have played on turning wickets recently. We want to play within the gaps against the spinners. Rotate the strike and play fewer dots. We got exposed within the tri-series final against Recent Zealand. We didn’t dominate their spinners in the center overs. There are too many gaps with five fielders within the 30-yard circle.”
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – IANS)
