'If they think too much about it, they won't be able to concentrate on the next match' - Sunil Gavaskar on way ahead for Pakistan after loss to India in Asia Cup 2023 clash

In a scintillating Super Four clash of the 2023 Asia Cup held in Colombo, Team India showcased their dominance in emphatic fashion, trouncing arch-rivals Pakistan by a staggering margin of 228 runs. The legendary Indian batsman, Sunil Gavaskar, lauded this monumental victory, hailing it as a thorough decimation of their opponents. The resounding win marked a historic milestone for the Men in Blue, representing their largest-ever margin of victory against Pakistan in the ODIs.

Gavaskar, who is known for his astute cricketing insights, urged Pakistan to swiftly put the humiliating defeat behind them. He emphasized on the importance of mental resilience, advicing Babar Azam and his compatriots to shift their focus towards their upcoming encounter against Sri Lanka.

"Forget about the biggest victory, puri tarah se dhula diya (we just hammered them), just as you wash clothes in a dhobi ghat. If you are a good team, you don't let the result of the previous match affect you. If they think too much about it, they won't be able to concentrate on the next match. I don't expect Pakistan to make such a mistake," Gavaskar said during a discussion on Sports Tak.

The Super Four clash unfolded as Pakistan won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that ultimately backfired. Indian openers notched up impressive half-centuries to put India in the box seat with 147/2 in 24.1 overs before rain temporarily interrupted play. On the reserve day, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul put up an exceptional partnership that led India to 356/2. Facing a daunting target of 357 runs, Pakistan's batting line-up succumbed to Indian pressure, folding for a mere 128 runs, thereby enduring their most comprehensive defeat to India in ODIs.

Sunil Gavaskar was all impressed by Rahul and Bumrah’s showmanship

Furthermore, Sunil Gavaskar also lauded KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah for their stellar performances, especially commending their remarkable fitness levels after making their comebacks. He underlined the significance of their contributions to Team India, not only in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 but also in the looming ICC World Cup 2023. 

"KL Rahul not only scored a century but also kept wickets," Gavaskar noted, adding, "He made a big statement amid all the talk about his fitness. He proved that he is completely fit. Jasprit Bumrah, too, looked in great rhythm. His run-up looked good, and he swung the ball both ways. Even a world-class batter like Babar Azam was unable to play him.”