Clarke Makes Bold Prediction On Chsmpions Trophy (Source: @MClarke23/x.com, @BCCI/x.com)
With three days left for the Champions Trophy, the excitement is touching the sky. From experts to fans, everyone is backing their favorites and predicting the top four. Adding to the buzz, former Australian captain Michael Clarke has shared his take on the tournament’s biggest contenders.
With teams making their final preparations, the former Australian captain has come up with his prediction and named his four semifinalists.
Clarke Names His Four Semifinalists
As the Champions Trophy is returning after eight long years, Pakistan is also coming back as a host after a brief break. Starting from February 19, the marquee event will take place on Pakistani soil but India will play all their matches in Dubai. While talking in a podcast, former Australian skipper Michael Clarke named India, Pakistan, Australia, and New Zealand as the semifinalists.
“India, Pakistan, Australia and New Zealand—these are the teams I've got in my top four,” Clarke said.
On Pakistan’s Ongoing Woes And India-Pakistan’s Rivalry
After 29 long years, Pakistan is set to host an ICC event once again, with the Champions Trophy adding to the excitement and making this occasion even more special. However, their shaky form is a major concern. From individual struggles to underwhelming ICC performances, they’re under pressure. Clarke believes this could be a major setback for them.
“My fear with Pakistan is whether they can handle the pressure. This has always been a concern when playing against them. I've seen them have a better team on multiple occasions, but they have struggled under pressure. It will be interesting to see how they cope with expectations, especially while playing a major tournament at home.” Clarke said.
The legendary India-Pakistan rivalry always ignites the cricketing world, and the Champions Trophy is no exception. The arch-rivals are set to lock horns on February 23 and the cricket world is looking forward to the match. Adding to the excitement, former Australian captain Michael Clarke has shared his thoughts ahead of this much-awaited showdown.
“The rivalry between Pakistan and India is unbelievable. If they face each other in the tournament, or even in the final, it would be massive. Pakistan has a balanced squad and playing in home conditions gives them a significant advantage. If they play their best cricket, they are good enough to win the tournament.” Clarke added.
India-Australia Final Again?
The fierce India-Australia rivalry has thrilled cricket fans for years, delivering unforgettable moments across formats and ICC tournaments. As the Champions Trophy approaches, Michael Clarke has made his bold prediction, naming India and Australia as two finalists, he named the probable winner’s name.
“My fingers are crossed for Australia, so I’m going to say Australia will be one of the finalists. And I think they will face India in the final.” Clarke said.
“I think India is going to beat Australia in the final. I can’t believe that just came out of my mouth.” Clark added while predicting the winner.
As the Champions Trophy is set to take off its curtain on February 19, Team India will start their journey on February 20. Conversely, Australia will face England in their first group stage match on February 22. Fans are anticipating another thrilling tournament.
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