Asia Cup 2022: 3 reasons why Pakistan can beat India in the high-profile clash

2. The Babar Azam effect

The Pakistan team are in a transition phase with several fresh faces coming through the ranks, but one man who has been a constant feature for the national team is their mercurial leader Babar Azam.

Babar took over the reins two years ago and went from strength to strength during that period. The trailblazing top-order batter has flourished in the leadership role, taking his consistency with the bat to an unprecedented level. He recently broke former Indian skipper Virat Kohli’s record to become the fastest ODI captain to 1000 runs.

The Men in Green have improved considerably under Babar’s guidance and look calm in the toughest of situations, contrary to their earlier tendency of capitulating under pressure. The Pakistani skipper is their X-factor and his sensational form as a batter and captain will most likely determine the outcome of the match.