'The gap is huge': Ganguly on India's dominance over Pakistan in T20 WC
New Delhi, Feb 16
After India recorded a 61-run triumph over arch-rivals Pakistan in the Group A clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, former India skipper Sourav Ganguly believes the idea of an automatic "big match" between India and Pakistan is outdated, as the intensity and competitiveness that once defined the rivalry no longer feel the same.
Defending champions India's win over Pakistan also confirmed their place in the Super Eights. Ishan Kishan's blistering 77 had set the tone earlier in the evening, and India's bowlers ensured the target of 176 was always out of reach to dismiss Pakistan for 114 in 18 overs.
Speaking to IANS, Ganguly opined that the current Pakistan team isn't comparable to the legendary side that featured players like Javed Miandad and Wasim Akram.
"A big match doesn't really exist anymore; those kinds of matches used to happen in the past. We make the mistake of thinking of Pakistan as the team of Javed Miandad, Wasim Akram, and Shahid Tanvir, but that Pakistan no longer exists," Ganguly told IANS.
With Sunday's win, India have strenghten their head-to-head record over Pakistan in the T20 World Cups to 8-1; Pakistan managed to win only once (in 2021).
"So, in my view, it's not a big match. For me, the real big matches are India vs Australia, India vs South Africa, and India vs England. There is a huge difference between the teams, so the result is somewhat expected. The gap in quality is more noticeable than the result itself," Ganguly added.
While India have sealed their Super 8s qualification with a game to spare, Pakistan will now likely have to defeat Namibia in their final Group A fixture to have any chance of qualifying for the Super Eights phase of the event.
India will conclude their league stage campaign with the clash against the Netherlands on February 18 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I agree the gap is big, calling it "not a big match" feels a bit harsh. For fans, India-Pakistan will always be special, regardless of the form. The emotions are unmatched!
The 8-1 record in T20 World Cups says it all. Our system is producing world-class players consistently, while they seem to be in a decline. Focus should be on beating Australia and England.
Dada speaking facts! The real test is now against the SENA countries. Beating Pakistan has become routine, which is something I never thought I'd say. Ishan Kishan was fire though! 🔥
As a neutral cricket fan living here, I see Ganguly's point. The hype often exceeds the contest now. India's bench strength is incredible compared to most teams.
Respectfully, I disagree with Ganguly sir. Downplaying any win against Pakistan isn't good. A win is a win, and the pressure on players for this match is still immense. Let's not get overconfident.
The quality of cricket from India was top-class. But honestly, I miss the nail-biting finishes of the 90s. That era is truly gone. On to the next
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