Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri, weighing in on Pakistan’s prospects at the Champions Trophy, beginning on February 19, has said that defending Champions Pakistan could turn out to be a dangerous team in home conditions. Moreover, they have enough depth in their squad. Meanwhile, the highly anticipated match between the arch-rivals India and Pakistan is set to be played on February 23 in Dubai. The excitement has been building up for the blockbuster clash between the arch-rivals, who only meet during global events.
"There's always pressure when you play at home in the sub-continent – whether it's India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, or Pakistan – the expectations are massive. But I think Pakistan are the kind of side that, with the exposure they have had in the last six to eight months in white-ball cricket, have put up some really strong performances, especially in South Africa,” Shastri said on the ICC Review.
Shastri also talked about Pakistan’s young opener Saim Ayub, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to an ankle injury.
"They have missed Ayub at the top, and he is a crucial player," Shastri said.
"But Pakistan have enough depth to be dangerous, especially in home conditions. I would say they should qualify for the semi-finals and from there, it's anyone's game," he added.