“Focus Would Be On World Cup, Not Defeating India”, Says Shadab Khan.

The ICC has officially announced the highly anticipated date for the India-Pakistan World Cup 2023 match, creating a buzz among cricket enthusiasts. The clash is set to take place on October 15 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and it promises to be a thrilling encounter. India, aiming to extend their unbeaten streak against Pakistan to 8-0, will face a determined Babar Azam-led Pakistani team who are eager to break the jinx.

Looking back at their previous encounters, Pakistan managed to break their World Cup jinx against India in Dubai in 2021. However, they are yet to secure their first victory over their arch-rivals in the 50-overs format. Throughout the history of ODI World Cups, whenever India and Pakistan have faced off, it has been Team India who has emerged victorious, often dominating the contests. Shadab Khan, an important all-rounder for the Pakistani team, acknowledges the immense emotions involved in an India-Pakistan match. However, he emphasizes that defeating India will not be the sole priority for his team in the World Cup. Shadab believes that even if Pakistan were to face a loss against India, emerging as the champions of the World Cup would hold far greater significance than simply winning another India-Pakistan encounter.

Shadab Khan said “Playing against India brings unique joy and pressure, especially on their home ground. However, the focus should be on competing in the World Cup rather than solely on defeating India. Winning against India alone holds no benefit if the ultimate goal of winning the World Cup is not achieved. Shadab believes that even losing to India but winning the World Cup is a win-win situation, as it aligns with their primary objective,.