T20 World Cup 2024

After Pakistan reaches final of 20-20 World Cup, former Pakistan cricketers support India in semi-final clash against England

As soon as India and Pakistan reached the semi-finals of the 20-20 World Cup 2022, there have been widespread talks about the two teams meeting in the final once again. Pakistan strengthened the hopes of an India-Pakistan final as they crushed New Zealand in the first semi-final on Wednesday to reach the final. As India prepares itself to take on England in the second semi-final on Thursday, they have great support from the entire Pakistan.

India and Pakistan met in their opening match of the 20-20 World Cup on 23^rd October at the MCG. The match turned out to be an edge-of-the-seat thriller as India emerged victorious on the last ball. With another thrilling fixture in their mind, former Pakistan cricketers are rooting for India in the second semi-final against England.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi said it would be a dream come true to have a Pakistan vs India final on Sunday at the MCG. Former Pakistan spinner Iqbal Qasim said despite the intense rivalry, there had always been a healthy respect for each other’s cricket history and performances.

“I will also support India to beat England because there is nothing like a match between the two countries and I should know as I have played in some of them,” Qasim added.

It would be lovely to see a Pakistan vs India final: Rashid Latif

Pakistan’s former Test captain Rashid Latif noted that India had a good recent track record against England in white-ball formats and had recently beaten them in a T20 series in England.

“Both teams are strong outfits with some very quality players. But how Virat Kohli and Suryakumar fare will to my mind be the key to a possible India win. England remain a very dangerous side but would be lovely to see a Pakistan vs India final,” he added.

Cricket historian and analyst Nauman Niaz said in sports there is nothing bigger than a Pakistan vs India final for broadcasters and sponsors. “England are a classy side and it will be a tough one for India but yes I will support Rohit and his players to pull off a win,” Niaz added.

Cricket writer and film critic Omair Alavi said he knew for a fact that many of his circle of friends and relatives would be cheering India on when they play England.

“If we play India in the World Cup final and can defeat them it would be a double-decker win for every Pakistani,” he said.

The final of the 20-20 World Cup 2022 will be played at the MCG on November 13.