New York: Afridi Compares India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Clash to Super Bowl
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has likened the upcoming India-Pakistan match in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup to cricket’s equivalent of the ‘Super Bowl’. This highly anticipated Group A encounter is set to take place at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on June 9.
“For American fans new to the tournament, they should understand that Pakistan’s game against India is akin to our Super Bowl. I always cherished playing against India and firmly believe it represents the greatest rivalry in sports,” Afridi wrote in his column for the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Afridi reflected on his experiences, noting the mutual respect and admiration from Indian fans. He emphasized that the key to succeeding in these matches lies in managing the immense pressure. “Both teams are brimming with talent; it’s all about performing on the day,” he added.
Regarding the ongoing T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA, Afridi remarked on the unpredictability of T20 cricket, making it difficult to identify a clear favorite. “The team that can maintain composure will emerge victorious,” he said.
Afridi also highlighted the depth of modern T20 teams, pointing out that even lower-order batsmen can now change the course of a game with high strike rates. “I hope Pakistan will be that team this time, but predicting a favorite is challenging.”
Despite Pakistan’s inconsistent form in 2024, Afridi expressed confidence in their ability to compete against any team. “They have the ingredients to succeed in the West Indies and USA,” he noted, citing their recent performances in ICC tournaments and the favorable conditions in the Caribbean.
Afridi praised Pakistan’s talent, especially their formidable bowling attack, and expressed optimism about their prospects. “The fast bowlers are world-class, and the team has significant depth,” he stated.
Afridi also hopes that the local American population will embrace cricket, enhancing the sport’s presence in the country. “This tournament is crucial for American cricket. The expat community’s enthusiasm is tremendous, and I believe cricket will soon become mainstream in the USA,” he observed.
He fondly recalled leading Pakistan in the 2010 World Cup in the West Indies and expressed excitement about the tournament returning to the Caribbean. “The pitches in the West Indies cater to both batters and bowlers, so players must adapt quickly. Batters need precise shot selection, while bowlers must find their optimal line and length,” Afridi concluded.
