If the bowlers can get rid of Babar Azam early, India can destroy Pakistan: Monty Panesar

The India versus Pakistan clash in the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup is one that will attract the attention of the entire cricketing world. This blockbuster clash is slated to take place on 24th October 2021 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Ahead of this marquee contest, former England cricketer Monty Panesar has stated that Pakistan is an unpredictable side. Adding that on their day the Pakistan side can beat any cricket team in the world, Panesar opined that India will have an upper hand over Pakistan considering their overall record against the arch-rivals.

“You just can’t predict Pakistan. Only Pakistan can beat Pakistan. On their day, they can beat any team in the world. Pakistan are really motivated this time and wouldn’t spare any team. But India will have an upper hand, considering their overall records against Pakistan. Pakistan will be under pressure, not India,” said Monty Panesar in a chat with the Times of India.

Shaheen Afridi is a wonderful left-arm seamer: Monty Panesar

Monty Panesar also added that the players who will be crucial for the Pakistan side are Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. The 39-year-old also stated that Afridi is a wonderful fast bowler and will be waiting to scalp a lot of Indian batsmen. Panesar also opined that the likes of KL Rahul and Indian skipper Virat Kohli would have had some practice against left-arm pace bowling.

Monty Panesar concluded by stating that if the Indian bowlers can scalp the wicket of Babar Azam quite early in the match, then the Pakistan batting lineup will collapse.

“For Pakistan, Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi (are the key). Shaheen is a wonderful left-arm seamer and he will eye more and more Indian wickets. I am sure Virat and KL Rahul have enough practice against the left-arm seamers. If India bowlers get rid of Babar Azam early, they can destroy Pakistan like a pack of cards,” concluded Monty Panesar.

Monty Panesar played 50 Tests, 26 ODIs, and 1 T20I for England. He played his last international match for the England side in the year 2013.