As the highly-anticipated India versus Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2023 on a roll, former South African cricketer AB de Villiers shares invaluable advice for Team India. Scheduled for Saturday, September 2 at the Pallekele International Stadium, the match promises to be a showdown of cricketing giants. De Villiers believes India must focus on dismissing Babar Azam early if they intend to dominate the match.
In Pakistan's opening game of the tournament, Babar Azam displayed cricketing prowess by scoring an outstanding 151 runs against Nepal at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This feat shattered Virat Kohli's previous ODI record for the highest individual score by a captain. Babar's performance also earned him the Player of the Match award, setting the stage for Pakistan's commanding 238-run victory to kick off their Asia Cup campaign.
"I love talking about Babar Azam because he is one of the best players we have ever seen play this game and not just now. He is a huge rock in the Pakistan batting order. If India wants to keep Pakistan quiet, this is the guy to dismiss early because he keeps the batting line-ups together and acts as glue in the Pakistan middle-order," De Villiers remarked on his YouTube channel.
Reflecting on his personal interactions with Babar, De Villiers also mentioned how vital Babar's form is for Pakistan's performance not only in the Asia Cup but also in the World Cup slated for later this year.
"I met him first when he [Babar] was very young but quickly realized that this guy is here to stay. He has hurt bowling attacks all around the world and in all formats. He is a fantastic player and Pakistan need him in form for the Asia Cup and most importantly, for the World Cup," De Villiers added.
Clearly, Babar Azam has risen as a cricketing force to be reckoned with. His impact on Pakistan's middle-order is monumental, and he indeed serves as the linchpin around which the team's batting revolves. With high stakes on both sides, Babar's role becomes even more critical in this historic India vs Pakistan matchup. De Villiers' insights underline the magnitude of the challenge that awaits Team India as they seek to halt Pakistan's momentum, specifically by targeting their formidable captain.
