NEW DELHI: Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir is keenly looking forward to the T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan.
In his column for the Times of India, Gambhir wrote, "Shoaib Akhtar sometimes makes statements which surprise people on either side of the Wagah. I don't know the man that well except that he could evoke fear with his bowling. But I agree with one of his recent observations. The former fast bowler feels that if Pakistan wins this tournament it will be a big "morale-booster" for their cricket. Shoaib says that Pakistan cricket is searching for the elusive shot in the arm for cricket to rediscover that mojo. If I understand him right, Pakistan are looking for moments like our 1983 World Cup win or 1985 World Series triumph in Australia."
Gambhir marked out India as favourites to win the clash against their arch-rivals.
"On the other hand India almost own the arena. They have the swagger. They have the tattoos and they have the game too. They bring TV ratings which in turn bring revenues to the cricket boards around the world. While players are ready to even take a sea route to play against India, Pakistan's red carpet is seen with scepticism. As Shoaib summarises, Pakistan's needle game is not against India but against New Zealand. He says whole of Pakistan is miffed with Kiwis who called off a recent tour to the neighbouring country due to security reasons," Gambhir added.
Gambhir observed that the difference between Indian and a Pakistan youngster is their self-confidence and the Indians have no fear of failure.
"Unlike the 90s or early 2000s, India seem to have better control over their game. I am not sure if it is only to do with IPL and its wares. In general a modern young Indian is more exposed and hence is not scared to express himself on the world stage. I remember on my debut there were a million thoughts in my mind as I went into bat. The fear of failure was there till the last day of my playing career. I am not sure if a youngster these days feels that way. You look at Venkatesh Iyer and feel "WOW". He may be not there yet with skills but has an attitude and approach of someone who knows what he is doing. I think that is what a Pakistani youngster lacks," Gambhir concluded.
