LAHORE: The biggest match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is set to take place at the world's largest cricket stadium, Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, on Saturday, where the cricket teams of Pakistan and India will square off.
Both the teams from Pakistan and India have emerged victorious in their opening two matches of the World Cup, affirming their good form. Consequently, this match is anticipated to be an intense and thrilling competition.
The clash between Pakistan and India is fraught with tension, as fans eagerly await the outcome, passionately supporting their respective teams. The media has also placed great importance on the match. However, the considerable pressure surrounding the contest leaves no room for defeat.
Athletes are aware that in a match between traditional rivals, a lacklustre performance can diminish their standing, while an exceptional performance can transform them into heroes, their legacy enduring for years.
Players may claim that this match is similar to any other and that the pressure is the same, but in reality, it is not. The pressure in this match is unparalleled. India's performance in this match is pivotal.
The question now is, who will bear the brunt of the pressure this time, and why?
Statistics reveal that the Pakistan team has yet to secure a victory against India in the ODI World Cup; all seven matches have been won by the Indian cricket team. This underscores that there will be added pressure on India this time, and there are several reasons for this.
First cause of pressure:
One of these reasons is the pressure on India to maintain their winning streak.
Second cause of pressure:
The second reason for the pressure is that the Indian team will be playing at their home ground, in front of a home crowd. Furthermore, the match is taking place at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest cricket stadium globally. Who would want to witness a defeat with around 120,000 spectators in the stands? Hence, the Indian team will certainly feel the pressure.
Third cause of pressure:
Reports of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's presence have also surfaced. Bearing a defeat in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi would add to the pressure.
Fourth cause of pressure:
Initially, there was no opening ceremony on the first match day, October 5. However, a special program has been organised for the India-Pakistan match, which will be attended by India's top superstars. This has elevated the match's significance and, in turn, increased pressure on the home team.
The Pakistan team, which has lost the first seven World Cup matches, do not face the same level of pressure. A victory would be a breath of fresh air for them. Consequently, the Pakistan team should remain composed and take the field without succumbing to nervousness. Pakistani fans are aware of this and are refraining from pressuring their heroes.
If the Pakistan team can break the tradition of losses in the T20 World Cup, they can also put an end to their losing streak in the ICC Cricket World Cup. The possibility exists in Ahmedabad, so let's support the Pakistan team.
Sohail Imran Sohail Imran is a senior reporter for Geo News.
