In the world of cricket, there is no rivalry quite like India vs. Pakistan. When these two cricketing giants clash, it’s not just a match; it’s a spectacle, a cultural phenomenon, and a battle of nerves. For Pakistan, facing India in the World Cup has been akin to gladiators stepping into the Colosseum, with the relentless roar of over 100,000 fans echoing in their ears. However, skipper Babar Azam sees this match as an opportunity to change history, to break a jinx that has haunted Pakistan for years.

The Unforgettable Rivalry

Two-time champions India have maintained a perfect 7-0 record against Pakistan in the 50-overs World Cup. They are also the top-ranked ODI team, with a flawless record in the tournament so far. On the other hand, Pakistan has won its first two matches in the World Cup. As they gear up for the tournament’s most-anticipated clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket venue, Babar Azam carries with him a complete disregard for the past.

READ MORE: Pakistan’s Borrowing Spree: A Closer Look at the $3.527 Billion in the First Quarter of FY24

“I don’t think about the past; I’d rather focus on the future,” Babar told reporters with a wry smile on his face. “All records are meant to be broken, and we’ll try to break this record tomorrow. It boils down to how you perform on the day of the match. We have done pretty well in the first two matches, and I have full belief we’ll do well in the next match as well.”

A Battle of Nerves

Part of Pakistan’s success in this high-stakes encounter will depend on how their team manages the pressure of playing against their fiercest rivals, on Indian soil.

Babar’s message to his team is clear: “India-Pakistan match is a big game, a high-intensity contest. I’ve told my boys it’s a great opportunity – give your best, execute your plans, and believe in yourself. It’s a massive stadium, and there would be a big crowd. This is a golden opportunity for us to perform in front of such a big audience.”

Shaheen Afridi: Pakistan’s Trump Card

Pakistan’s fortunes in this match could very well hinge on the performance of their pace spearhead, Shaheen Afridi. He has consistently troubled India’s top order in recent encounters between the two rivals. His workload has increased due to the absence of his new-ball partner, Naseem Shah, who was ruled out of the tournament with a shoulder injury. However, Babar has unwavering faith in Afridi.

“He’s our best bowler, a champion bowler,” Babar said of the left-arm quick. “I believe he’s a big-match bowler, who always gives his best on big occasions. For us, it does not matter if he does not get wickets in a match or two; it does not put a question mark against him.”

With this year’s tournament producing several high-scoring contests, Babar has emphasized the need for precision among his bowlers. “We are seeing mostly high-scoring matches, and there’s little margin for error for the bowlers. If you are straying from the stumps line, the margin is less. I just told my bowlers to hit the right length and bowl stump-to-stump.”

The Battle Beyond the Boundary

While the stadium will be packed, there may be virtually no support for the visitors as fans from across the border are still awaiting visas to travel to India. Pakistan journalists only received their visas this week, just ahead of the big match.

In conclusion, Saturday’s India-Pakistan clash promises to be a nail-biting affair, a match that transcends sport. Babar Azam’s words reflect the hope and determination of Pakistan’s team, eager to rewrite history. Regardless of the outcome, it’s moments like these that make cricket more than just a game; they make it an unforgettable experience.