Pakistan coach pins hopes on players’ T20 experience in Dubai to counter India

Pakistan cricket team’s interim coach Aaqib Javed said that there was no advantage or disadvantage for India whatsoever in the IND vs PAK clash. The arch-rivals will lock horns in their second game of the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai on Sunday. By the virtue of the tournament adopting a hybrid model, hosts Pakistan will play their match against India in Dubai.

Will PSL experience help Pakistan in IND vs PAK tie?

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Javed claimed that Pakistan players have a better understanding of the conditions in Dubai. He cited the experience of playing in various T20 leagues, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at the venue to justify his argument. Javed also brushed aside the pressure of playing against India, dubbing it as just another game.

“Not at all. Because if you look at all the Pakistani players, they’ve been playing leagues here. The PSL was played here. So, there is nothing really in the conditions. I don’t think there is any advantage and disadvantage,” Javed said in response to a question on advantage for India.

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Many former cricketers were divided in their opinion as to which side had the edge over the other in the high-octane contest. While stars like Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar picked India as the firm favourites, stars like Yuvraj Singh noted that Pakistan would have the advantage in the IND vs PAK tie.

While India clinched a 6-wicket win to start their Champions Trophy campaign on a victorious note, Pakistan succumbed to a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in their first game. As a result, the clash against India is a do-or-die for the defending champions in order to stay alive in the tournament.