NEW DELHI: Amidst mounting anticipation for the much-awaited cricket showdown between India and Pakistan scheduled for the Asia Cup 2023, Tom Moody, a former Australian cricketer, has shared his expert perspectives on the groundwork of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team and the hurdles they could encounter.
In an interview with Star Sports, Moody delved into the intricate dynamics shaping the preparations of the Indian squad under the captaincy of Rohit.
He also took the opportunity to contemplate the immense significance of the India-Pakistan clash, drawing parallels with the renowned Ashes series.
Moreover, Moody engaged in a comprehensive analysis of the strengths inherent to both teams and the various factors they must consider as they brace themselves for this monumental and much-anticipated face-off.
"I think this match surpasses the Ashes. It’s always got a lovely story to it, and both are outstanding cricketing nations. And when you look at that Pakistan squad, it does boast a lot of talent. But one thing that stands out for me is that it also boasts experience. So now they have the combination of experience and talent, they are a real threat. They can match India with their pace bowling; they’ve got genuine pace on their side, and the only issue I see them potentially having is the depth in the quality of their batting which India has got. So that’s going to be the interesting pressure that they put on the likes of Babar Azam at the top of the order," Moody said.
Moody emphasises the pivotal role of Pakistan's Shaheen Afridi, particularly with the new ball, in potentially destabilising India's batting lineup.
"Shaheen Afridi. Full Stop. I just think that Shaheen with the new ball is a major threat, which he has done historically. Broken through with that new ball, manages to blow away a couple of early wickets, which then opens up the middle order for India to resurrect things. Particularly for a middle order that hasn’t had a lot of game time," he said.
(With IANS inputs)
