2017 ICC Champions Trophy: Yuvraj Singh Feels Win Against Pakistan Boosts Team’s Morale
Nov 2, 2023 at 3:48 PM
After India won comprehensively against struggling Pakistan by 124 runs in the epic clash in their 2017 ICC Champions Trophy at the Edgbaston in Birmingham, on Sunday, the left-handed batsman Yuvraj Singh, who played a pivotal role for the team with his bat, believes their openers set the cushion to rely on, before top-order joined the party to score bulk of runs.
“The openers gave us a very good start,” Yuvraj said at the presentation, in the rain-truncated game.
It’s pertinent to note, the left-and-right-handed combination of Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma has not only frustrated the Pakistan bowlers but put on the significant 136-run stand for the first wicket in 24.3 overs.
However, Pakistan in response, posted 164 for nine in 33.4 overs, as Wahab Riaz was nursing the twisted ankle in the dressing room, as he picked the injury on his own bowling.
“We will take the confidence and momentum forward. Our bowlers did very well throughout the game. We will take the confidence into the game against Sri Lanka,” Yuvraj revealed.
Rising to the occasion, Yuvraj Singh blasted 53 runs off 32 balls. He smashed eight boundaries and a splendid six which further saw his strike-rate of 165.62 even starting off his innings slowly to get the better idea of the pitch which further proved to be a placid surface, as it offered value for shots.
“Yeah definitely to get some runs on the board it feels good. We all batted well,” Yuvraj maintained.
The experienced campaigner Yuvraj has also praised his skipper, who remained unbeaten on 81 off 68 balls which further helped India to go against Pakistan.
“Virat batted well. I was given the opportunity to go out there and attack. Not easy at all. I think you have to back yourself,” Yuvraj remarked.
The 35-year-old batsman Yuvraj believes, one has to be up on their feet – to let the opposition know what you’re capable off, as it was his day today.
“You have to tell the opposition you are out there to attack and score runs. Depends on how you are feeling that day. I was feeling good today,” delighted Yuvraj said.
However, in 39th over, Yuvraj was dropped by Hasan Ali on the bowling of leg-spinner Shadab Khan, the latter revealed he was lucky enough to have a life while adding it’s always a fascinating game to be part of between two teams.
“Lucky got dropped and then capitalized in the end. Finished really well. India-Pakistan is always a big game. I think it sets up nicely,” Yuvraj further said.
India will face Sri Lanka in their second Group B match on June 8 at The Oval.