ODI World Cup 2023: Babar Azam is under 'pressure' as India-Pakistan ticket requests pile up

Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, revealed that the pressure of securing tickets for the high-stakes ICC Cricket World Cup encounter with India in Ahmedabad is even more significant than the match itself. The intense cricket rivalry between these two nations garners substantial global viewership and passionate support, making it a highly anticipated event.

India, riding high on two consecutive wins, is brimming with confidence as they prepare to face their traditional rivals, Pakistan, at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium this Saturday. The right-handed batter, when questioned about the pressure ahead of this epic World Cup clash against India, provided a humorous yet sensible response, "There is more pressure for match tickets than match," quipped Babar.

In their last encounter at the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, India extended their unbeaten streak against Pakistan by clinching a commanding victory in the 22nd match at Old Trafford, Manchester. The standout moment of the match was the exceptional performance by India opener Rohit Sharma, who notched up an impressive 140 runs from 113 deliveries, contributing significantly to India's imposing total of 336/5.

Despite rain interruptions leading to a shortened 40-over match, Pakistan could only muster 212/6, falling 89 runs short, as per the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. This game further cemented India's supremacy over Pakistan in World Cup meetings, upholding their impeccable record.

Also Check: ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Points Table

‘We want to live in present’ – Babar Azam on India’s record dominance over Pakistan in World Cups

The lead-up to the October 14th game has been overshadowed by India's impressive 7-0 record. While the Asian giants may have lost their flawless T20 World Cup record, Pakistan have yet to find a way to defeat India in an ODI World Cup match since their initial encounter in 1992. The Pakistan skipper expressed confidence in their ability to win the match against India, disregarding the historical records that favour India as a strong team.

"I think what has happened in the past is not important. We want to live in present. I think we can do well. India-Pakistan match is high-intensity. Believe in ourselves. There are a lot of fans coming. I think we have an opportunity to do well in front of fans," he further stated.