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Wasim Akram, a legendary figure in Pakistan’s cricketing history, has emphasized the upcoming Asia Cup’s significance as a crucial litmus test for subcontinental bowlers as they prepare for the 50-over cricket format, especially with the looming ODI World Cup 2023 on the horizon. Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to kick off on Wednesday, August 30, and will run until Sunday, September 17, featuring an exciting lineup of 13 games. Pakistan will play host to four of these fixtures, while Sri Lanka will be the venue for the remaining nine.
Akram discusses how continental Asia Cup serves as a litmus test
During a conversation with reporters at a tournament sponsor’s event, Akram underscored the fact that modern bowlers are accustomed to delivering just four overs per game, primarily in formats like T20 cricket. However, with the Asia Cup being contested in the ODI format, bowlers will face an entirely distinct challenge. The 57-year-old believes this continental tournament will serve as an invaluable litmus test, evaluating bowlers’ readiness to adapt to the 50-over format, which demands different strategies and sustained stamina.
“Be it India or Pakistan or Sri Lanka, we will find out if the bowlers are able to deliver 10 overs or not, now-a-days they are all used to bowling four-overs (per game),” Akram was quoted as saying by PTI.
“It is a long tournament — not a one-off that you can enter the semifinals after winning one game. You have to win games to get on top. You have to take it game by game. Also, it is a 50-over competition (this time) not T20, which means different mindset and fitness will be required,” the left-arm speedster added.
Akram praises Asian cricket council’s wise decision
Akram also commended the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) for its astute decision to organize an ODI Asia Cup just ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. This strategic move ensures that teams from the subcontinent are not only prepared but also finely attuned to the nuances and challenges of ODI cricket.
“This is a good idea by ACC to have a 50-over Asia Cup because right after it we have the World Cup,” the Lahore-born cricketer concluded.
The Asia Cup is set to commence with a clash between Pakistan and Nepal in Multan, offering fans an exciting start. Nevertheless, it’s the much-anticipated clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, scheduled for September 2 in Kandy, that is capturing the imaginations of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. This match promises to deliver the intense rivalry and unmatched passion that have become synonymous with cricket in this region.
