The Cricket World Cup, formally recognized as the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, stands as the paramount international championship for One Day International (ODI) cricket. Administered by the International Cricket Council (ICC), the tournament occurs every four years, incorporating preliminary qualification rounds leading to a grand finals competition. Renowned as one of the most widely followed sporting events globally, the Cricket World Cup holds the prestigious title of the “flagship event of the international cricket calendar,” as designated by the ICC. Cricket fervor has taken over Ahmedabad as the highly anticipated World Cup clash between India and Pakistan approaches on Saturday. A ‘sea of Blue’ was evident outside the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where fans gathered to passionately support the Men in Blue for the upcoming match.
From the early hours of the morning, fans were seen lining up outside the stadium, many donning the iconic Blue Indian cricket team jerseys and waving the national tricolor, energetically chanting “India” with fervor. Numerous supporters expressed their strong support for Indian captain Virat Kohli, with one fan boldly stating, “Pakistan is scared of Virat Kohli… He will make a century today.” Another cricket enthusiast confidently asserted, “Virat Kohli will be the hero of the match; he is always special when he plays against Pakistan… he is unbeaten.” In the history of ODI World Cup matches India has maintained a dominant head-to-head record against arch-rival Pakistan, winning all seven encounters and boasting a flawless 100% win record. Recently, some prominent Pakistani players offered praise to Virat Kohli, commending his insatiable hunger for runs, dedication to self-improvement, remarkable finishing skills, and focus as a batter.
In a Star Sports video, top-order Pakistani batsman Imam-Ul-Haq expressed his admiration for Virat Kohli, highlighting his resilient attitude and the way he confronts Australia on their home turf. He commended Kohli’s unique mindset and unwavering belief in his ability to excel in any situation, emphasizing Kohli’s elite status in cricket.
Pacer Haris Rauf shared his experience as a net bowler facing Virat during the Big Bash League in Australia, noting Kohli’s exceptional focus and control. Rauf acknowledged Kohli’s aggressive approach in the nets, recognizing why he holds such a prominent status in international cricket. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammed Rizwan also lauded Kohli’s prowess in finishing matches. India’s squad includes Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, and Suryakumar Yadav. Pakistan’s squad features Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Wasim.
