As Pakistan prepare for their high-stakes Champions Trophy showdown against India on Sunday, former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief and cricketer Ramiz Raja believes their underdog status could work to their advantage.
In his column for Dawn, Raja suggested that India’s top-order vulnerabilities and strategic bowling adjustments could open the door for a Pakistan upset at the Dubai International Stadium.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!
“India already have a victory under their belt, beating Bangladesh in their first game. Pakistan, desperate to get off the mark, will enter the much-awaited game as the underdogs. But that can actually be an advantage because it allows them to play without much pressure,” Raja stated.
Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand in their opening game, leaving them in a must-win situation. However, Raja noted that India’s batting mainstays, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, are not in top form.
“India’s batting mainstays Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are not currently in great form, and if Shubman Gill — who scored a century to guide India to victory against Bangladesh — gets out early, Pakistan will have a good chance to slow down India’s scoring,” he said.
Raja highlighted their failure to rotate the strike effectively, pointing to the staggering 145 dot balls while chasing 320. “The top order often takes too long to start scoring and taking risks, worrying about getting out. This fearful mindset hinders the team’s ability to set or chase targets,” he observed.
Pakistan’s bowling attack also needs a sharper approach. Raja criticised their pace bowlers for lacking variety and control under pressure. “Where are the yorkers, the slower bouncers, or subtle variations? The spinners have been bowling too fast and defensively. That will need to change,” he warned.
Despite Pakistan’s early setback, Raja remains optimistic. “It wasn’t the ideal start, but when playing against India, Pakistan often rise to the occasion and play with great passion for their country and fans. However, it is also important for them to stay calm under pressure and effectively follow their bowling plans, especially in the final stages of the match.”
With a sold-out stadium expected to be dominated by Indian supporters, Raja sees the pressure as a potential motivator for Pakistan. “On Sunday, there will be added pressure. The stadium will be packed with more Indian fans than Pakistan fans. It would be a great day to win against the odds!” he concluded.