India captain Virat Kohli said his side’s impeccable tournament record against Pakistan will count for nothing when they face each other on Sunday, and they will need to be at their very best to overcome Babar Azam’s side in the Twenty20 World Cup.
India have a 12-0 record against Pakistan in Twenty20 and 50-overs World Cups and they will hope to extend that streak in their tournament opener against their arch-rivals.
Kohli, who will relinquish Twenty20 captaincy after the showpiece event knows the importance of beginning well. We never discussed it within the team — what our record is, or what we achieved in the past.
They distract you. What matters is how you prepare and how you perform on that given day regardless of opposition. These things are added pressure.
The current Pakistan team is very strong, they always have been so. They are very talented, with several players who can change the game anytime Against a team like that, you need to arrive with your best plans, and make sure you execute it well. We definitely have to bring our A game tomorrow.
For me, it’s never been different to any other game of cricket that we play.
Yes, the atmosphere in the stadium is different but our mindset is no different, our preparations are no different, and our approach to the game is certainly no different.
Babar Pakistan skipper. We are not focused on what happened in the past, but looking forward to what lies ahead, he said.
“It’s important to start well and make an early impact. We are excited to be here.”
The team met Prime Minister and former captain Imran Khan, who led Pakistan to their maiden ODI World Cup title in 1992, before leaving for the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
India and Pakistan Group 12 match is scheduled today October 24 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.