Before the Asia Cup 2023, legendary Pakistani cricket icon Wasim Akram declined to pick any team as the frontrunners for clinching the championship. It is worth mentioning that Asia Cup 2023 will start from August 30. This time the tournament will be organised in Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
Being a member of the illustrious commentary team for the tournament, Akram emphasized the significance of organizing a 50-over Asia Cup before the highly awaited ODI World Cup scheduled to take place in India between October and November. The legendary bowler declined to designate any specific team as the ‘favorites’.
According to Indian Express, Wasim Akram quoted,”This is a good idea by ACC to have a 50-over Asia Cup because right after it we have the World Cup. It is a long tournament — not a one-off that you can enter the semi-finals after winning one game. You have to win games to get on top. You have to take it game by game. Also, it is a 50-over competition (this time) not T20, which means different mindset and fitness will be required.”
“Last time we had predicted an India versus Pakistan final but Sri Lanka won the competition. All three teams are dangerous — anyone can win on their day. There are other teams competing too. Last time Sri Lanka won the title, India even failed to make it to the final,” he elaborated.
Wasim Akram also praised the Indian cricket management and their think tank for getting two captains for T20 and ODI.
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“I think they (team India) are trying different things, new players especially in the T20 format, also a new captain. They have a balanced squad. But it will not be easy for India or any team. All six countries are looking forward to seeing their players. This is a prep tournament before the big one, the World Cup,” said Akram.
