India and Pakistan are just few hours away from their Super 4 clash of Asia Cup 2022 in Dubai, and the excitement is building up among the fans, media and former cricketers on both sides.
India had defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets in the group stage and the latter will look to level the scores tonight as a win today will go a long way in helping to secure the spot in next Sunday's final.
Ahead of the match, India's very own 'Mr. 360' Suryakumar Yadav spoke about the rivalry shared by the neighbouring countries, while adding that he approaches the clash as any other and prefers to stay in his zone and play the game.
Suryakumar, who scored 68* in 26 balls against Hong Kong, while speaking on Star Sports' show ‘Follow the Blues’ said, “When I was growing up, there have been lots of talks regarding the India-Pakistan game and people say it’s the greatest rivalry, but when I or anyone go on the ground, it’s like we are playing just another game. When we enter the field, all our preparations, all our routines, what we have been doing for any other game, it just reflects on the ground. So, when I go on the ground, it’s all the same. I don’t think what rivalry has been happening and what the expectations from outside etc. are. So, I just try to stay in my zone and play the game.”
He added, “For me, I think my preparations have always been on top. What I have done in the last three-four years with my game; go sit in the room and watch my batting again and again. Just try and stay one step ahead of any other team. So, I feel that the preparations have always been on top, and these things have helped me till now and I will follow that again and again.”
The world no.3 batter in T20I rankings also spoke about his favourite shot, “I love playing the sweep shot, to the spinners as well as to the fast bowlers; whenever I feel I have to play that, but its need of the hour to play everywhere on the ground and so I just try and be myself.” he signed off.
(The Indian Express Inputs)
