Why Pakistan Might Overcome India In T20 World Cup 2024 Clash

IND vs PAK: India and Pakistan are set to renew their rivalry in Match 19 of the T20 World Cup 2024 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, June 9.

The arch-rivals have had several intense encounters in World Cups. However, Pakistan have only managed to beat India once in World Cup history (both ODI and T20I).

In the T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai, a Babar Azam-led side defeated India by 10 wickets. India avenged that defeat twice, first at the MCG in T20 World Cup 2022 and later in the ODI World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad last year.

India are again the favourites to beat Pakistan, who lost their T20 World Cup 2024 opener against USA on Thursday. A defeat against India would make USA's qualification chances for the Super Eight round of the T20 World Cup 2024 very challenging.

Pakistan are known for their unpredictable style of play. Historically, they can outperform any top team on their day. They have achieved unexpected victories when least expected.

At the T20 World Cup 2022, Australia lost their first two matches, including one against Zimbabwe, before winning three consecutive matches to qualify for the semi-finals. They then defeated a strong New Zealand side.

Indian fans should remember how Pakistan dominated in the final of ICC Champions Trophy 2017. Chasing 339, India were bowled out for 158.

Pakistan have had a tough two months. They settled for a draw against a second-string New Zealand side at home in April. In May, they suffered their first-ever defeat against Ireland and failed to win against England.

After losing to the USA, a comeback performance from Babar Azam's team is anticipated. Their recent poor results could motivate them to deliver an outstanding performance.

The New York Pitch

The New York pitch has been a topic of discussion recently. The drop-in pitches have shown uneven bounce, making it difficult for even top batters to score runs. Virat Kohli was dismissed for one off five balls here. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 77, and South Africa took 16.2 overs to chase the small total.

Pacers have dominated on this pitch, and Pakistan are known for their exceptional pace bowling attack. Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Amir have the potential to trouble the Indian batting line-up on this surface. Early strikes from them could put India in a difficult position.