Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan feels Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah could post a huge threat to his side owing to their match-winning abilities. India and Pakistan are set to face each other on Sunday (October 24) in their 20-20 World Cup opener. The teams have met on five occasions during several seasons of the global event, with India holding an upper hand by maintaining a clean slate so far.
Younis also said that both skippers, Virat Kohli and Babar Azam's contribution would be key in deciding which way the match would go. The former Pakistan captain also feels that wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan could prove to be a match-winner due to his recent good form.
"Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are two very bankable batsmen for both India and Pakistan respectively, but I feel that Rohit Sharma and Mohammad Rizwan can also turn up the heat. The spotlight will largely be on the two captains, so Rohit and Rizwan will be eased off pressure and can produce match-winning performances for their sides," Younis said on YouTube channel "Uncut."
The 43-year-old said that both teams have good pace bowling attacks but he singled out Jasprit Bumrah due to his wicket-taking abilities in the power play and death overs. "Pakistan's fast bowlers have been in good shape. For India, their pace attack has improved significantly in the recent past as well. Bumrah, in particular, has been brilliant in the last few months," said the 43-year-old.
The former skipper also spoke on the Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam debate, saying that it is unfair to compare Azam with Kohli as Kohli has established himself as one of the greats of the game while Babar still has a long way to go. "Both are top, top players. Babar is still young and he is building his career right now. Kohli, meanwhile, had made his debut in 2008 when I was still playing. I don't particularly think that the comparison is fair but it's good to see fans talking about the two players in good stead," said the former Pakistan skipper.