ICC World Cup 2023, IND Vs PAK | Five Player Battles To Watch Out For

image-lnoenrwhIndia has an unblemished record vs Pakistan in World Cups

The cricketing world holds its breath as arch-rivals India and Pakistan prepare to face off in Match 12 match of World Cup 2023. Slated for Saturday, October 14, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, this isn't just a game—it's an emotion that resonates deeply with fans from both nations.


IND vs PAK: Player battles to watch out for

Both teams come into this encounter with momentum on their side. India, having outplayed Australia and Afghanistan, and Pakistan, registering convincing victories over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, are in top form.

But past records fade in the face of this high-octane clash where passion and pride often dictate the play. Adding to this excitement are individual battles within the big war, matchups that could potentially decide the game's outcome. Here's a closer look at the top five player battles for IND vs PAK clash.


Rohit Sharma vs Shaheen Afridi

image-lnoeq8l9Rohit Sharma (Twitter)

The contest between Indian captain Rohit Sharma and Pakistan's young pace sensation Shaheen Afridi is expected to set the tone for the game. 

In ODIs, Rohit has managed 33 runs off Afridi from 42 deliveries, at a strike rate of 78.6 and an average of 33 with one dismissal to the speedster’s name. Given Rohit's ability to set big scores and Afridi's knack for early breakthroughs, this face-off promises a mix of experience vs exuberance.


Babar Azam vs Kuldeep Yadav

image-lnoeqjjgBabar Azam has struggled against Kuldeep Yadav (Twitter)

Pakistan's captain and batting maestro, Babar Azam, has found the going tough against India's wrist-spinner, Kuldeep Yadav. With 18 runs from 34 balls and being dismissed twice, Babar has an average of just 9.0 and a strike rate of 52.9 against Yadav. This particular matchup is intriguing as it pits Babar's sublime skills against Kuldeep's skills. It will be interesting to see if Babar can counter Kuldeep's spin in this clash of monumental proportions.


Virat Kohli vs Hasan Ali

image-lnoer7o8Virat Kohli (Twitter)

The fiery contest between Indian stalwart Virat Kohli and Pakistan's Hasan Ali will be a treat for fans. Kohli's ODI stats against Hasan speak volumes of his dominance; he has amassed 44 runs from just 29 balls without losing his wicket at an impressive strike rate of 151.7. 

Hasan, known for his aggressive pace and ability to reverse the old ball, will be eager to challenge Kohli and bag his prized wicket.


Imam-ul-Haq vs Jasprit Bumrah

image-lnoes12tImam-ul-Haq (Twitter)

Pakistan's opener Imam-ul-Haq will be tested against the accuracy and swing of India's pace spearhead, Jasprit Bumrah. 

In their previous encounters, Imam has managed just 12 runs off 21 deliveries, with Bumrah claiming his wicket once, resulting in a strike rate of 57.1 and an average of 12.0. The pacer's brilliance in both the powerplay and death overs makes this duel crucial for Pakistan's opening stand.


Hardik Pandya vs Shadab Khan

image-lnoesjuoHardik Pandya (Twitter)

Explosive all-rounder Hardik Pandya's battles with Pakistan's leg-spinner Shadab Khan are always filled with fireworks. Hardik has been dominant, scoring 68 runs off 44 balls, without being dismissed at a strike rate of 154.5. 

Shadab, with his variety of leg breaks and googlies, will be aiming to put a brake on Hardik's aggression. Their face-off, especially in the middle overs, can significantly influence the game's momentum.