London: India’s remarkable consistency will be up against Pakistan’s legendary volatility when the fierce rivals clash in what is expected to be an exciting finale to the ICC Champions Trophy, here on Sunday.
Defending champions India had got the better of the rivals in the league stage of the ongoing tournament. And captain Virat Kohli has already declared that nothing extra is needed to get the same result despite the turnaround by Sarfraz Ahmed’s men.
Even skipper Virat Kohli would tell one and all that they are “not here to make statements”.
On pure cricketing logic, Pakistan are no match for Virat Kohli’s men, who have some of the best exponents of limited overs cricket.
But just like in life, at times sporting realities defy logic which is exactly the reason why Sarfraz Ahmed’s team can’t be ruled out on a big day.
Kohli is confident that his middle-order comprising MS Dhoni, Kedar Jadhav and Hardik Pandya, that has gone untested so far, will come good if ‘Law of Averages’ catches up with them.
“I am sure when Kedar and Hardik will put their hand up when situation arises. I don’t think middle order not being tested is something to worry about,” the skipper, who himself has been in sublime form had said earlier.
With two quality pacers in Bhuvneshwar and Jasprit, both of whom have maintained less than five runs per over economy rate, India have their bases covered.
Defending the Champions Trophy will also be important as the on-field supremacy could also help India regain some lost ground off the field when the ICC Annual Conference starts a day after the final. In all, a lot to play for.
