Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has emphasized the immense pressure on veteran batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as they prepare to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023. Harbhajan Singh believes that this high-pressure encounter will test the batting duo’s skills and composure.
The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team is set to take on Babar Azam’s Pakistan at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, September 2. This match marks a significant showdown between the two neighboring cricketing nations, with their last ODI encounter taking place during the 2019 World Cup in England.
In an interview with India Today, Harbhajan Singh underscored the unique significance of an India versus Pakistan match, highlighting that it provides a platform for players to become overnight sensations.
“I believe India must be ready for this game. They’ve been practicing hard. During the last tour of the West Indies, several key players like Rohit and Virat were not part of the series. However, India versus Pakistan is always a special game. It’s a high-pressure game. Kohli, Rohit, and the other players will be very keen to showcase their talent,” stated Harbhajan.
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Currently ranked as the No. 1 ODI team globally, Pakistan displayed their dominance in the Asia Cup 2023 opener by overwhelming Nepal with a remarkable 238-run victory in Multan. Harbhajan Singh expressed confidence in the ability of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to excel under pressure, especially against Pakistan.
“Senior players always face pressure. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma need to lead from the front. There will be immense pressure on Kohli and Rohit to perform because they are the most senior players. But they’ve consistently delivered against Pakistan in the past, and hopefully, they will do so again tomorrow,” added Harbhajan.
Both Rohit and Virat boast strong ODI records against Pakistan. Rohit has amassed 720 runs in 16 innings at an impressive average of 51.43, including two centuries and six half-centuries. Virat, on the other hand, has compiled 536 runs in 13 innings at an average of 48.73, featuring two centuries and two fifties.
Harbhajan Singh noted that young talents like Shubman Gill, who are participating in their first match against Pakistan, are eager to make their mark in this high-pressure contest. “Players like Shubman Gill will be playing their first match against Pakistan in a high-voltage encounter. They will be eager to perform. I believe India is well-prepared for this competition,” concluded Harbhajan.