'2011 ka badla lena hai is baar' - Shoaib Akhtar hopes for an India vs Pakistan final at World Cup 2023

All the nations have begun their preparations for the ODI World Cup which is set to be hosted by India later this year. The teams have performed really well of late, and predicting the finalists is surely a difficult task at the moment. But former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar believes that India and Pakistan could make it to the summit clash of the global event.

After winning the World Cup in 1983 under the legendary Kapil Dev’s captaincy, MS Dhoni led the Indian side to their second ODI World Cup win in 2011 at home. On the other hand, Pakistan have won the title once in 1992 under Imran Khan’s leadership. India’s 2011 victory remains special as the Men in Blue, before defeating Sri Lanka in the final, defeated Pakistan in the semi-final to seal the last spot.

“I want an India vs Pakistan final, whether they are playing in Mumbai or Ahmedabad. 2011 ka badla lena hai is baar (Want to avenge the loss of 2011 semi-final),” Akhtar told Sports Tak.

Akhtar wants Indian government to give a nod for the team to travel to Pakistan for Asia Cup

Akhtar was also questioned over the Asia Cup dispute, which has seen the PCB and BCCI at odds with one another. PCB is adamant about hosting the entire competition at home, however, BCCI is hesitant to send the Indian squad to Pakistan for the Asia Cup. As only the governing authorities of the two nations have the power to determine what will transpire, in Akhtar's opinion, the subject does not warrant as much attention.

“These are trash talks. Neither BCCI nor PCB can do anything in this matter. BCCI can't do anything without asking the Indian government. Our board also can't do anything without consulting our government. Everyone gives their opinion when it comes to the India-Pakistan tie. I have a request for all the former players from both sides; please stay away from making unnecessary comments. If Narendra Modi-led government will give the green light, who is BCCI to decide that they will travel to Pakistan,” Akhtar added.