'Even if we lose...' - Abdul Razzaq's appeal to Pakistan ahead of 'high intensity' IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023

Ever since the Asia Cup 2023 schedule was announced, cricket fans across the globe have been eagerly waiting for September 2, as India and Pakistan, two of the bitterest rivals in cricket history, will lock horns. Given the geopolitical tensions between the two neighbouring countries, who have not met in bilateral series for years, the anticipation for their clash in major tournaments has always been constant. When the two cricket giants meet in the upcoming continental event, the emotions and excitement will be the same for both the players and the cricket fraternity.

Ahead of the much-awaited clash of the tournament in Kandy on Saturday, the former Pakistan cricketer Abdul Razzaq had a strong message for the Men in Green. Razzaq advised Babar Azam and Co. not to panic and look to deliver 100% in each match, especially against arch-rivals India. Pakistan are coming off the back of a resounding win over Nepal in their tournament opener in Multan on Wednesday.

Speaking after Pakistan's massive 238-run win, the former Pakistan all-rounder said: “This game was good preparation for the India game because it gave us confidence. India-Pakistan will always bring high intensity. We want to give 100% in every match, hope to do that there as well.”

Pakistan entered the premier Asian cricket tournament as the No. 1 ODI team and they justified their tag with a strong performance. Their captain led from the front with a spectacular 151, while middle-order batter Iftikhar Ahmed also shone with his maiden ODI century. Pakistan set a target of 343 runs for Nepal and their bowlers bowled them out for just 104 runs to register a huge win. Right-arm spinner Shadab Khan bagged four wickets, while Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi claimed two wickets each.

This is the best team we have: Abdul Razzaq

However, when playing against India, as Razzaq said, it is always a high-intensity encounter and it will not be easy for Pakistan to continue their dominance. Meanwhile, the 43-year-old said the current Pakistan playing XI is well-balanced and should stick with the same team even if they lose the game against India.

"See, the current Pakistan XI is well-balanced. You have proper batters and all-rounders in middle-order. You have full strength in pace and spin attack. You have everything. You should have the same team, this is the best combination. Even if we lose the match against India, you shouldn't be changing the current team. This is the best team we have," Razzaq said in a recent interaction with GEO Super