Following Pakistan's dramatic five-wicket win over Afghanistan on Friday, England star all-rounder Ben Stokes, who had taken a break from international cricket to cope with his mental issues, has made a bold prediction.
After seeing Pakistan's overwhelming performance in the tournament, Stokes couldn't resist himself from terming Pakistan as favourites to make the final of the T20 World Cup alongside England.
“England vs Pakistan Final ???,” Stokes tweeted after Pakistan’s victory over Afghanistan.
Stokes has been recalled to England's squad for this year's Ashes series in Australia. In addition, watching Asif Ali slam four sixes in an over of Karim Janat to secure the deal for Men in Green gave him deja vu.
Stokes recalled Ian Bishop's epic commentary moment during the 2016 T20 World Cup final at Eden Garden where Carlos Brathwaite had smacked the English all-rounder for four consecutive sixes, ensuring West Indies' victory.
“Remember the name @AasifAli2018,” Stokes penned hailing Asif Ali for his breathtaking knock.
Pakistan and England both are still undefeated in the tournament. Pakistan lead Group 2 with a Net Run Rate (NRR) of +0.638 after three victories in three matches, while England lead Group 1 with a strong NRR of +3.614 after two wins in two matches.
Pakistan are currently clear favourites to qualify for the semi-finals from Group 2 after three successive victories, considering the fact that their remaining two matches are against Namibia and Scotland. England, on the other hand, will face off Australia tonight after their victories over the West Indies and Bangladesh. England will then take on Sri Lanka and South Africa.
Pakistan have a good chance of finishing first in Group 2, and if England finish second in Group 1, the two teams will meet in the Semi-final itself.
