With India and Pakistan set to clash in the Asia Cup final, the tension is palpable. Former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar’s recent comments have taken the internet by storm. During a cricket talk show, Akhtar comically confused Abhishek Sharma with actor Abhishek Bachchan, eliciting amusement from the studio. Discussing Pakistan’s strategy for the final, Akhtar stated, ‘If Pakistan gets Abhishek Bachchan out quickly, what about their middle order? Their middle order hasn’t been consistent.’ The anchor and fellow commentators couldn’t contain their laughter before Akhtar corrected himself, naming Abhishek Sharma.
Abhishek Sharma is a key player standing between Pakistan and the championship. The left-handed batsman has been the highest run-scorer in the tournament, amassing 248 runs across 5 matches. His aggressive batting includes 17 sixes, with a remarkable strike rate of 206. Sharma’s explosive 75-run performance in the previous match against Pakistan has made him the focal point of their game plan.
India’s middle order has exhibited weaknesses in the last two matches, despite their overall success in the Asia Cup. Tilak Varma has scored 95 runs, but his strike rate is a modest 126. Suryakumar Yadav and Shivam Dube have struggled. Sanju Samson managed a half-century but was tested by spinners. A quick dismissal of Abhishek Sharma could create an opening for Pakistan.
India’s fielding performance presents another challenge. They have dropped the most catches, totaling 12. The team’s fielding errors against Pakistan and Bangladesh were significant. Should India repeat these mistakes in the final, Pakistan will have a golden opportunity to regain control of the game.