The T20 World Cup 2024 is fast upcoming, and the buzz is already building around the highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan. Scheduled for June 9 in New York, this match is not just a game it is a spectacle that promises soaring ticket prices and potentially record-breaking viewership numbers. As the teams prepare, former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali has voiced his opinions on Pakistan’s readiness, especially in contrast to India’s robust showing in the IPL.
Basit Ali, a respected figure in Pakistani cricket, has expressed concerns over Pakistan’s current form. He says India appears firmer, having honed their skills in the recently concluded IPL. “India and Pakistan are set to dazzle the audience in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024,” Basit stated. He highlighted that the ICC seems keen on both teams advancing deep into the tournament, possibly setting the stage for another showdown in the semifinals or finals. “The ICC wants India and Pakistan to have two matches in the World Cup. They have tailored the schedule so the two teams can meet again, possibly in the semifinal or final,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Basit emphasizes the crucial role of Babar Azam, the Pakistani captain, in their campaign. “For Pakistan to perform well, Babar must open. His leadership and batting are key to navigating through the tough matches,” he explained. Indeed, Babar’s form will be pivotal in boosting Pakistan’s confidence and performance on such a grand stage.
Both teams have been placed in Group A alongside Ireland, Canada, and co-hosts USA, setting up a thrilling group stage. The squads for both teams are packed with talent. India’s squad, led by Rohit Sharma, includes cricket heavyweights like Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s lineup features dynamic players such as Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan, all ready to make their mark.
India and Pakistan Squad for T20 World Cup 2024
| Pakistan Squad | India Squad |
| Babar Azam (c) | Rohit Sharma (c) |
| Abrar Ahmed | Hardik Pandya |
| Azam Khan | Yashasvi Jaiswal |
| Fakhar Zaman | Virat Kohli |
| Haris Rauf | Suryakumar Yadav |
| Iftikhar Ahmed | Rishabh Pant |
| Imad Wasim | Sanju Samson |
| Abbas Afridi | Shivam Dube |
| Mohammad Amir | Ravindra Jadeja |
| Mohammad Rizwan | Axar Patel |
| Naseem Shah | Kuldeep Yadav |
| Saim Ayub | Yuzvendra Chahal |
| Shadab Khan | Arshdeep Singh |
| Shaheen Afridi | Jasprit Bumrah |
| Usman Khan | Mohammed Siraj |
As the tournament draws nearer, the strategies and form of both teams will be under intense scrutiny. The competition between India and Pakistan transcends the boundaries of the cricket field, making every encounter between them a nail-biting event. The upcoming T20 World Cup is more than just a tournament; it showcases cricketing prowess, national pride, and the unifying spirit of sport.
