Wasim Akram Delivers 'Huge' Verdict For Team India Ahead Of Pakistan Clash At Asia Cup 2023

The Indian team, announced last week, is in full preparartion for the Asia Cup that saw a host of big names test themselves in the training camp in Alur, Bengaluru. The likes of Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill tested themseves via YoYo Tests and continue to practice ahead of the marquee tournament.

Pakistan on the other hand, have made a strong start. They are the number one ranked side in ODIs thanks to their 3-0 series win over Afghanistan.

Given the amount of buzz the India vs Pakistan tie carries around especially in cricket, former former Pakistan skipper Wasim Akram has warned that it would be harmful to underestimate the other oppositions.

"India versus Pakistan is very important, we know about so much support (teams get), so many eyeballs, so many people (following). But other teams are also here to play so you cannot minus Sri Lanka or Bangladesh," Akram said, as quoted by PTI.

The 1992 World Cup winner also insisted that the Rohit Sharma-led side have a "balanced" look. However, the Pakistan bowling great has also insisted that it won't be easy for the Men In Blue to win the continental tournament.

"I think they are trying different things, new players especially in the T20 format, also a new captain. They have a balanced squad. But it will not be easy for India or any team," he said.

India will start their Asia Cup 2023 campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2 in Kandy before facing Nepal in Group A.