Pakistan bowling nice Wasim Akram on Sunday stated the upcoming Asia Cup will take a look at the readiness of subcontinental bowlers for 50-over cricket forward of the ODI World Cup, however refused to choose any favourites for the event.
The Asia Cup begins on Wednesday with Pakistan taking up Nepal within the tournament-opener in Multan, however all eyes are fastened on the mega conflict between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in Kandy on September 2.
“Be it India or Pakistan or Sri Lanka, we’ll discover out if the bowlers are in a position to ship 10 overs or not, now-a-days they’re all used to bowling four-overs (per recreation),” Akram informed reporters right here throughout a event sponsor’s occasion.
The competitors will revert to the 50-over format on this version after being organised within the T20 model final yr, and Akram welcomed the change.
“This can be a good concept by ACC to have a 50-over Asia Cup as a result of proper after it we now have the World Cup,” he stated.
Akram stated all groups might be challenged on the parameters of health and recreation plans.
“It’s a lengthy event – not a one-off which you can enter the semifinals after successful one recreation,” he stated.
“You must win video games to get on high. You must take it recreation by recreation. Additionally, it’s a 50-over competitors (this time) not T20, which implies totally different mindset and health might be required.”
The legendary pacer refused to foretell any favourites however stated the highway might be powerful for all sides.
“Final time we had predicted an India versus Pakistan closing however Sri Lanka received the competitors. All three groups are harmful – anybody can win on their day,” Akram stated.
“There are different groups competing too. Final time Sri Lanka received the title, India even did not make it to the ultimate. India versus Pakistan is essential, we find out about a lot help (groups get), so many eyeballs, so many individuals (following). However different groups are additionally right here to play so you can not minus Sri Lanka or Bangladesh,” he added.
Akram stated India has a balanced squad for the Asia Cup.
“I feel they’re making an attempt various things, new gamers particularly within the T20 format, additionally a brand new captain. They’ve a balanced squad. But it surely is not going to be straightforward for India or any staff,” he stated.
Requested if Pakistan might have taken a powerful stand in opposition to India for not travelling to the neighbouring nation for the Asia Cup, Akram performed it secure.
“The Pakistan authorities has given permission that Pakistan (staff) can journey to India,” he stated.
“I’ve at all times maintained and stated that politics and sports activities needs to be other than one another. Individuals to folks contact is essential and the common Indian and Pakistani, they do respect one another. I hope finally sanity prevails.”
The second highest ODI wicket taker with 502 dismissals, Akram termed the Asia Cup because the “second greatest event” on this planet.
“It’s the second greatest event within the calendar of the cricketing world. (The) World Cups after which the Asia Cup, two giants, conflict of the titans… two titans, India and Pakistan then Sri Lanka, the earlier Asia Cup champions final yr in Dubai – what a hit that was,” he stated.
“All six international locations are wanting ahead to seeing their gamers. This can be a prep event earlier than the massive one, the World Cup.”