Chennai: As the 2023 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) tournament unfolds, all eyes are set on the highly anticipated clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. In a showdown that carries immense historical significance and competitive intensity, both teams are gearing up for a battle that could shape their journey in the tournament and set the tone for the upcoming Asian and Olympic Games.
Hosted in Chennai, this edition of the ACT marks a significant moment as India’s cricketing giants, led by Captain Harmanpreet Singh, strive to convert their exceptional recent performances into tangible victories. Holding the highest rank in the tournament, India has maintained an impeccable record as the only unbeaten team, having triumphed over China with a decisive 7-2 win and a clinical 5-0 defeat of Malaysia. While Japan managed to hold them to a 1-1 draw, India’s 3-2 victory over Korea showcased their resilience and determination.
On the flip side, Pakistan’s journey has been a mix of ups and downs. They stumbled at the start with a loss against Malaysia, but resilient draws against South Korea and Japan, followed by a victory over China, have put them in contention for a semifinal spot.
For Pakistan, a win in the India clash would guarantee them a place in the semifinals, while a loss could leave their fate hanging on the outcome of the China vs. Japan match. A Pakistan loss coupled with a Japan win could further complicate their position, requiring a specific goal margin for Japan. Additional variables include a wish for Malaysia to defeat South Korea by a considerable margin, thus benefiting Pakistan.
Harmanpreet Singh has emerged as India’s talisman in the tournament, with five goals to his name. His milestone achievement of joining the exclusive club of players with 150 international goals underscores his pivotal role. As anticipation builds for the high-intensity clash against Pakistan, Harmanpreet Singh emphasised the importance of adhering to their game plan and original structure.
While India is the favoured contender due to their form and home advantage, Pakistan poses a unique challenge with their historical prowess. Historically, Pakistan has held the upper hand in head-to-head encounters with India, leading 82-64 with 32 draws. However, recent years have witnessed a shift in India’s favour, marked by 12 wins and 2 draws since 2016.
India Squad: PR Sreejesh, Krishan Bahadur Pathak, Harmanpreet Singh (C), Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Jugraj Singh, Varun Kumar, Hardik Singh (VC), Shamsher Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Manpreet Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Akashdeep Singh, S.Karthi, Gurjant Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Pawan, Mandeep Singh.
Pakistan Squad: Mohammad Umar Bhutta (captain), Rana Abdul Waheed Ashraf (vice-captain), Akmal Hussain, Abdullah Ishtiaq Khan, Mohammad Abdullah, Mohammad Sufyan Khan, Ehtisham Aslam, Osama Bashir, Aqeel Ahmed, Arshad Liaquat, Mohammad Imad, Abdul Hanan Shahid, Zakaria Hayat, Roman, Mohammad Murtaza Yaqub, Mohammad Shahzaib Khan, Afraz, Abdul Rahman.
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