The countdown has begun for the 2023 ODI World Cup. India is set to host the tournament with the hope of ending their ICC trophy drought. However, there are many other teams which are strong contenders for the title. One of them is the Pakistan cricket team led by Babar Azam. Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar feels that there could be an India vs Pakistan final in the ODI World Cup. If that happens, Akhtar wants Pakistan to avenge 2011.

The 2011 ODI World Cup was also played in India. Then the Indian cricket team defeated Sri Lanka in the final and captured the title. However, before this, Team India had given a crushing defeat to Pakistan in the semi-finals. This time Akhtar wants Babar to lift the trophy by defeating India wherever the final is held in Mumbai or Ahmedabad. Akhtar said in a conversation with a sports channel- I want India vs Pakistan final, whether they are playing in Mumbai or Ahmedabad. He said – this time we have to take revenge for 2011.

Akhtar was also asked about the Asia Cup controversy in which two boards - PCB and BCCI - are at loggerheads. While the BCCI is not ready to send the Indian team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, the PCB wants to host the entire tournament at home. Akhtar feels that the matter does not deserve much attention, as only the governments of the two countries can decide what will happen.

He said – these are nonsense things. Neither BCCI nor PCB can do anything in this matter. BCCI cannot do anything without asking the Government of India. Our board also cannot do anything without consulting our government. Everyone gives their opinion when it comes to India-Pakistan match. I request all former players from both sides, please refrain from making unnecessary comments. He further said- If the Narendra Modi-led government gives the green signal, then who is the BCCI to decide that they will go to Pakistan.