India’s left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav has sounded a note of caution ahead of the high-stakes Super Four clash against Pakistan at the Asia Cup, highlighting the threat posed by pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Speaking to media ahead of the much-anticipated showdown on September 21 in Dubai, Kuldeep praised the in-form left-arm pacer, saying, “Shaheen is bowling really well at the moment. A small mistake against him can prove very costly.”
“Matches against Pakistan are always high-intensity. The motivation levels are naturally high, and every player wants to give their best,” he said, reflecting on the importance of the rivalry.
The two teams last met on Sept 14 in their Group A clash where India comfortably chased down Pakistan’s 128-run target to win by seven wickets.
Although the final Group A match between India and Oman is scheduled for today at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, both Pakistan and India have already secured qualification for the Super Four stage.
Meanwhile, Group B fixtures wrapped up on Thursday with Sri Lanka finishing at the top of the table with three wins from as many games. Bangladesh claimed the second spot with two victories, despite a negative net run rate.
The Super Four stage kicks off on Saturday with Bangladesh taking on Sri Lanka. The much-awaited India vs Pakistan clash follows on Sunday, also in Dubai. Monday will serve as a rest day before Pakistan face Sri Lanka at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Sept 23.