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In a crucial insight ahead of the Asia Cup 2023 face-off between cricket powerhouses India and Pakistan, former star opener Salman Butt has pinpointed Shaheen Shah Afridi's opening bowling spell as a defining moment. The showdown is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 2, at the Pallekele International Stadium.
Shaheen Shah Afridi is renowned for his lethal new-ball spells in white-ball cricket formats. In Pakistan's initial game against Nepal, the left-arm fast bowler demonstrated his capabilities by dismissing Kushal Bhurtel and Rohit Paudel at the Multan Cricket Stadium.
According to Salman Butt, if Afridi can replicate such a start and secure early wickets, it could put India on the back foot. "The opening overs that Shaheen delivers will be immensely significant in the context of the game. India is well aware of the impact those initial overs can have. It's not just about Shaheen's prowess; other bowlers on the team can also be wicket-takers. However, the spotlight will be squarely on Shaheen's opening spell. Should he claim a couple of early wickets, it would certainly dial up the pressure on India," Salman Butt remarked on his YouTube channel.
Butt, who last represented Pakistan more than ten years ago, also highlighted the importance of a strong batting display from Pakistan to challenge India's formidable batting unit. "Pakistan should aim for a target in excess of 320 runs if they bat first. With hitters like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, India boasts a strong batting line-up. Securing their wickets will be crucial," he further added.
Pakistan enters this crucial contest on a high note, having recently trounced Nepal by a staggering 238 runs. This victory was bolstered by twin centuries from Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed, setting a challenging target of 343 for Nepal, who were eventually bowled out for a paltry 104.
Given the historical and competitive nature of India-Pakistan cricket matches, Shaheen Shah Afridi's performance could indeed be a game-changer in the Asia Cup 2023 encounter.
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