Aakash Chopra believes that Team India’s chances will improve if Pakistan defeats New Zealand. In tonight’s T20 World Cup 2021 match.
In their T20 World Cup opener, Pakistan humiliated India by a 10-wicket defeat. Virat Kohli’s side will have a week off before facing New Zealand. In their second Super 12 match on October 31.
“I feel Pakistan will help India if they defeat New Zealand. But if it happens the other way round, New Zealand beats Pakistan. It can be a three-way tie, the net run rate story can come. If India beats New Zealand and assumes the three teams win their remaining matches.” He explained
Therefore, Pakistan will have one foot in the semi-finals if they beat the Black Caps, according to the cricketer-turned-commentator.
“If Pakistan beat New Zealand, then only Afghanistan will be there in between and two teams. Who have come from the qualifiers – Scotland and Namibia. Then Pakistan through, make your place in the semi-finals and enjoy.” Chopra reasoned
With a win tonight, Pakistan would almost surely qualify for the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup. Unless Afghanistan can spring a surprise or two. it will be India and New Zealand fighting for the other semi-final position from the group.
Pakistan, according to Aakash Chopra, may be seeking retaliation for New Zealand’s recent last-minute withdrawal from their trip.
“It is slightly a grudge match because Pakistan felt very humiliated when New Zealand went there and returned without giving any reason. So I feel Pakistan may have a point to prove.” He observed
Shoaib Malik
“Pakistan is the team on the song. They are playing like that, the top three were anyway playing well and these conditions are going to suit Hafeez and Shoaib Malik a lot. They are bowling well. The team is looking formidable.” Chopra said
In the familiar Sharjah conditions, Pakistan will undoubtedly be favored to defeat New Zealand. The Kiwis, on the other hand, are notorious for stepping up their game in ICC events and should not be underestimated.
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