'Pakistan is still very, very dangerous' - Ravi Shastri backs hosts to reach Champions Trophy knockout
The ninth edition of the Champions Trophy will get underway on February 19.
Pakistan is all set to host the upcoming edition of the Champions Trophy, slated to commence on February 19. The marquee ODI tournament will be the first ICC tournament Pakistan will be hosting after nearly 29 years. There has been a lot of buzz in relation to Pakistan as to how their campaign will unfold.
Former Indian cricketer, Ravi Shastri, commented on Pakistan's abundant reserves as well as their impressive performances in the 50-over format in the past several months.
"I think Pakistan is the kind of side that, with the exposure they’ve had in the last six to eight months in white-ball cricket, have put up some really strong performances, especially in South Africa. They've missed Ayub at the top, and he's a crucial player. But, Pakistan has enough depth to be dangerous, especially in home conditions," shared Shastri while speaking on The ICC Review.
"I would say they should qualify for the semi-finals, and from there, it's anyone’s game. Pakistan is still very, very dangerous, and if they qualify, they'll be doubly more dangerous," he added.
Ponting heaps praise on Pakistan
Former Australian skipper, Ricky Ponting, felt Pakistan would become "incredibly dangerous" should Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan rise to the occasion.
"Pakistan's fast bowling brigade is very, very good. Led by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, who’ve been terrific in recent series, they have the pace and skill to trouble any batting lineup. Babar has been a bit up and down in recent years, but if he and (Mohammad) Rizwan can bring their A-games, that’s when Pakistan become incredibly dangerous," noted Ponting.
2024 was a splendid year for Pakistan cricket as far as the ODI format was concerned. They won three consecutive away series against Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, respectively. They are currently featuring in the Tri Nation Series, which has New Zealand and the Proteas as their competitors.
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