Islamabad: Former Pakistan fast bowler, Shoaib Akhtar, predicts that India and Pakistan will meet in the final of the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023 scheduled in India.  Akhtar hopes for a victory for Pakistan to avenge their loss to India in the semi-finals of the 2011 World Cup. He believes that the final could be held either in Mumbai or Ahmedabad. "I want an India vs Pakistan final, whether they are playing in Mumbai or Ahmedabad," Akhtar said.

"Want to avenge the loss of 2011 semifinal," he added. In addition, Akhtar commented on the recent controversy surrounding the Asia Cup. He believes that the matter should be left to the governments of the two countries to decide, rather than involving the cricket boards.  He urged former players from both sides to refrain from making unnecessary comments, stating that if the Indian government approves, then the BCCI should not have any issues traveling to Pakistan. "These are trash talks. Neither BCCI or PCB can do anything in this matter. BCCI can't do anything without asking the Indian government. Our board also can't do anything without consulting our government," he said. "Everyone gives their opinion when it comes to the India-Pakistan tie. I have a request to all the former players from both sides; please stay away from making unnecessary comments. "If Narendra Modi-led government will give the green light, who is BCCI to decide that they will travel to Pakistan," he concluded.

Published in The Daily National Courier, March, 23 2023

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