All teams are dangerous, anyone can win on their day in Asia Cup 2023: Wasim Akram

Ahead of the Asia Cup 2023, legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram refused to tag any team as ‘favourites’ to win the title. Notably, the ACC event is set to take centerstage as co-hosts Pakistan will square off against Nepal in the curtain raiser on August 30, at the Multan Cricket Stadium. 

Akram, who is a part of the star-studded commentary panel for the event, highlighted the importance of having a 50-over Asia Cup prior to the eagerly-anticipated ODI World Cup, which will be held in India during October-November. The bowling great refused to deem any particular team as ‘favourites’ considering that the road would be challenging for all participants.

“This is a good idea by ACC to have a 50-over Asia Cup because right after it we have the World Cup. It is a long tournament — not a one-off that you can enter the semi-finals 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,” Akram was quoted as saying by Indian Express.

“Last time we had predicted an India versus Pakistan final but Sri Lanka won the competition. All three teams are dangerous — anyone can win on their day. There are other teams competing too. Last time Sri Lanka won the title, India even failed to make it to the final,” he elaborated.

This is a prep tournament before the big one, the World Cup: Wasim Akram

Akram further spoke about team India’s squad and how the think tank has backed different captains for the white-ball formats. In addition to this, he stated that the Men in Blue look balanced but will not find it easy during the ACC event like the other participants.

“I think they (team India) are trying different things, new players especially in the T20 format, also a new captain. They have a balanced squad. But it will not be easy for India or any team. All six countries are looking forward to seeing their players. This is a prep tournament before the big one, the World Cup,” said Akram.

India will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, Sri Lanka, on September 2.