Former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar recently took to social media to heap praise on the Indian cricket team and their captain, Virat Kohli. After their impressive win against Australia in the semi-final of the Champions Trophy, Akhtar was in awe of the Indian team’s performance and specifically highlighted the brilliance of Kohli and the spinners.
In a post on Inside Sport India, Akhtar stated, “India is the side to win Champions Trophy.” He went on to praise Kohli for his exceptional batting skills and his ability to lead the team to victory. The former fast bowler also commended the Indian spinners for their outstanding performance in the match.
India’s victory against Australia was truly a remarkable one. After a disappointing loss against Sri Lanka in the group stage, the Indian team bounced back with a strong performance against South Africa in the virtual quarter-final. And now, with their win against the defending champions Australia, they have secured a spot in the final of the Champions Trophy.
Akhtar’s praise for the Indian team is not surprising. The Men in Blue have been in top form throughout the tournament, with their batting, bowling, and fielding clicking in unison. But it was their chase against Australia that truly caught the attention of cricket fans and experts alike.
Chasing a target of 237, the Indian openers, Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan, got off to a solid start. However, it was Kohli’s masterclass that stole the show. The Indian captain played a brilliant knock of 82 runs off just 77 deliveries, showcasing his impeccable batting skills and his ability to handle pressure in big matches.
Akhtar, who is known for his fiery pace and aggressive attitude on the field, was all praise for Kohli’s calm and composed approach. He stated, “Kohli is a chase master and he proved it once again in the semi-final. His ability to read the game and adapt to different situations is what sets him apart from the rest.”
But it wasn’t just Kohli’s batting that impressed Akhtar. The former cricketer also highlighted the contribution of the Indian spinners, especially Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin. The duo bowled exceptionally well, picking up crucial wickets and keeping the Australian batsmen in check.
Akhtar, who was known for his lethal pace and deadly yorkers, was all praise for the spinners’ performance. He stated, “The Indian spinners were outstanding in the match. They bowled with great control and didn’t let the Australian batsmen score freely. Jadeja and Ashwin proved once again why they are one of the best spin bowling pairs in the world.”
India’s win against Australia not only secured their spot in the final but also sent a strong message to their opponents. The Men in Blue have once again shown that they are a force to be reckoned with in the limited-overs format. And with the final against arch-rivals Pakistan looming, the Indian team will be looking to continue their winning momentum and lift the Champions Trophy for the second time.
Akhtar’s praise for the Indian team and Kohli is a testament to their exceptional performance in the tournament. It is also a reflection of the growing camaraderie and respect between the two neighboring countries, who have had a tumultuous relationship on the cricket field in the past.
As the cricket world eagerly awaits the final between India and Pakistan, Akhtar’s words serve as a reminder that cricket is a game that unites people and transcends borders. And with the Indian team in top form, it is safe to say that they are indeed the side to win the Champions Trophy.
