Cricket is a funny game indeed, and that trait of the sport has been reflected by the initial matches in the ICC World T20 2016. In conditions which assisted them, the Indians were rolled over for 79 by New Zealand and that has simply raised the intensity in the tournament. A week ago, India entered the tournament as clear favorites, but after a humiliating defeat, things look grim for the hosts.
Pakistan on the other hand, have begun in style by marauding Bangladesh in their Super 10 fixture at Kolkata. There will be a lot at stake when India and Pakistan lock horns at the iconic Eden Gardens in front of 80,000 spectators.
Former Indian batting great Sunil Gavaskar, in his conversation with NDTV, has stated that Pakistan begins as the favorites for the clash. “After the loss to New Zealand, India will be under far more pressure against Pakistan. I feel Pakistan start as favourites for the game on Saturday,” said Gavaskar. He also backed the Indian bowlers to do well.
“It is still pretty much Indian batting versus Pakistan bowling. However, with the way Indian bowlers have performed recently, they also won’t be easy to tackle either. Ashwin is bowling well and so is Nehra ever since he has made a comeback. Then you have Jasprit Bumrah. So it will be a test for Pakistani batsman,” he said.
Gavaskar also said that the Indian batsmen would have to be circumspect while facing Mohammad Aamir. “Hopefully, Rohit Sharma and others know that unlike many other left arm pacers, Amir has the ability to swing the ball back. Rohit and Rahane were found wanting against him in Asia Cup. So they have to careful for the first couple of overs and once you are set, there is always an opportunity to score,” he added.