Babar and Co ‘oozing with confidence' ahead of 'just another game'

Pakistan captain Babar Azam exuded confidence ahead of today's Asia Cup clash against arch-rivals India.

Babar's team will lock horns with India - both sides' first Asia Cup 2022 encounter - at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 28 August. Pakistan have fond memories of the venue, having beaten India when they last met them at the 2021 ICC Men's T20 World Cup's league match by 10 wickets. 

The excitement for the blockbuster clash from both sides is sky-high. However, the Pakistan skipper was focused on the preparations, adding: "the objective is always to make the country proud".

"I know there is tremendous excitement in both the countries but for us, it is just another game. Our preparations have been excellent and we will take the field oozing with confidence," added Babar on the eve of the big clash.

"Our victory over India 11 months ago at the same venue is a good reference point, but that's all. While we will continue to reflect on it positively, Sunday and any other matches down the line will be new fixtures that will be played in new conditions.

"I have always believed you don't need any additional motivation to play and perform for Pakistan. Representing your country at a global stage itself is a huge honour and pride, and the objective is always to make the country proud."

Pakistan recently dealt with major blows with ace pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi and exciting talent Mohammad Wasim ruled out of the Asia Cup due to injury. 

But Babar has put his complete faith in the squad at his disposal and made it clear that Pakistan isn't a 'one-man squad'.

"We have a squad full of quality cricketers and match-winners, who will step-up in the absence of Shaheen Shah Afridi and take additional responsibility during the tournament," said Babar. "In the 2021 T20 World Cup, we have already demonstrated we are not a one-man squad. In five league matches, we had five different player of the matches."

Though the matches between India and Pakistan on the field are as tense and fierce as they get, the rivalry is only limited to the field. Recently, the players were seen interacting with each other during the practice sessions ahead of the Asia Cup.

Several Indian players walked up to Afridi, who has travelled with the squad despite being unavailable, to express their support during his injury.    

"I was actually touched by the way they met Shaheen Shah Afridi during Thursday's training session and expressed their support to him," Babar added. "The visuals of the players interacting with each other were also heartwarming and reflected the respect and friendship they enjoy. But on the match day, everything will be kept aside and players from either side will come hard at each other in an effort to overpower the other."