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The stage is set for another high-octane clash as Afghanistan gear up to take on Pakistan in Match 22 of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, on Monday, October 23.
Both teams are looking to bounce back from their recent defeats. Afghanistan suffered a 149-run defeat against New Zealand, while Pakistan faced a 62-run loss to Australia in their last encounters.
Ahead of the game, Afghanistan’s head coach, Jonathan Trott, displayed unwavering confidence that the Afghans can triumph over the Green team, who find themselves in a challenging condition after enduring their second consecutive loss.
Both teams respect each other but are very desperate to win: Jonathan Trott
Trott acknowledged the historical significance of the Afghanistan-Pakistan cricket rivalry, emphasizing that it has been a passionate and exciting contest in the past. He anticipated an intense and exciting game, as both teams respect each other but are equally determined to secure a victory.
“I think for them (Afghans), it’s a rivalry that excites them. It’s a rivalry that sometimes in the past has been very passionate, but I’m sure we’ll see an exciting game tomorrow. It’s just the nature of the rivalry. And both teams respect each other but are very desperate to win,” Trott said at the pre-match press conference on Sunday.
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Trott’s typical analysis of pitch and players’ efforts
Trott stressed the importance of team performance over Chennai’s pitch conditions, especially against a strong team like Pakistan. He emphasized that while spinners play a crucial role, it’s essential for all players, including the batters and bowlers, to contribute to the team’s success. The former English cricketer underlined that victory doesn’t rely solely on spinners but is a collective effort.
“The pitch I’m not sure. Chennai is normally a good wicket. So, everybody’s got to put in a good team performance if we want to beat the likes of a strong side like Pakistan. With spinners, there are only two or three of them playing a game. And, it’s the other eight as well that have to play the game, so that’s important, it’s everybody’s job. It’s not just the spinners’ job to win games. There are batters who’ve got to put runs on the board or chase down a total. Yes, the spinners are important and getting our selection is key for the fixture, but it’s a team effort. There’s no reliance on just spinners,” the 42-year-old added.
