World Cup 2023: Fast bowling legend Shoaib Akhtar of Pakistan recently discussed his team’s prospects in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, which begins on October 5. At a Star Sports-hosted virtual conference, Akhtar expressed concern over Pakistan’s lack of a bowling all-rounder but remained upbeat about his team’s chances.
Akhtar thinks Pakistan should be among the favourites in the tournament in India, despite the fact that they don’t have a bowling all-rounder. “I believe Pakistan might need a bowling all-rounder,” he said. “Pakistan will travel to India and be the clear favourites upon arrival in India. I promise to tell you the truth,” he added.
Akhtar went on to say that Pakistan’s bowling is their strong suit, but that their batting lineup has developed greatly, making them a dangerous opponent. He said, “Pakistan look like a very settled squad in their batting, apart from their strength in bowling.”
The former bowler was also optimistic about Pakistan’s chances in the Asia Cup, where they are among the favourites. “I believe they are one of the favourites in the Asia Cup,” he said. “And the two teams competing in the subcontinent are India and Pakistan; defeating India in India will be the most difficult thing, while overcoming Pakistan in India would be almost impossible, due to the fact that both sides have formidable pace batteries,” he added.
Shoaib Akhtar’s Optimism: Pakistan’s Prospects in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023
While praising the speed bowling assaults of both Pakistan and India, Akhtar said that one side had a “great pace battery.” In addition, he praised the spinners on both teams for their poise under pressure.
Changing his attention to Pakistan’s batting, Akhtar saw a dramatic shift. He said, “Pakistan’s batting unit looked shaky in the beginning. But now…they seem to have settled into a solid unit. They seem capable of batting and chasing down scores. They do not seem to be scared to go for scores and would not give up easy. This seems to be a strong squad.”
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Pakistan has made great gains in the Asia Cup, advancing to the Super Four level as they prepare for the ICC Cricket World Cup. Their next big game is on September 10 in Colombo, and it’s against their bitter rivals in India. The cricketing skills of two subcontinental titans will be on full display in this match.
