Hayden predicts outcome of India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash

Former Australian cricketer, Matthew Hayden, has shared his insights and prediction for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 clash between India-Pakistan on Saturday at Pallekele. 

According to him, this contest features some of the most exciting bowlers on the planet, namely Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem.

In a recent interview with Star Sports, Hayden emphasized the importance of adapting to the playing conditions in Kandy, which typically offer a lot of bounce. He cautioned that Haris Rauf, with his pace and ability to hit the top of off stump, could be particularly challenging for the Indian batsmen. 

"India is playing against Pakistan’s pace trio. Well, I can tell you this is one of the spiciest competitions on the planet. We’ve got Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem. Three very different types of bowlers and unique bowlers which require unique plans from Team India. Firstly, the conditions here in Kandy tend to have quite a lot of bounce, so you’ve got to watch that out, especially Haris Rauf. He’ll want to really hustle in and hit the top of off stump,” Hayden said.

“You’ve got to be conservative against Shaheen Afridi. Remember back to the World Cup more recently; Shaheen was able to take early wickets. We’ll never forget that ball that he bowled to captain Rohit Sharma, so a little bit of caution against Shaheen Afridi. If it's swinging, look to play out those first three overs,” he added.

Overall, the former Australian batter expressed his belief that Team India has the upper hand in the match, citing their deeper and classier batting lineup and their good form.

“I think with Naseem, even though he will shape the ball, Pakistan can be in a position to advance forward with India managing to take them out of play by aggressive plays against someone like Naseem. Put him under pressure, feel like you are in front of the game. All in all, though, I think it’s going to be Team India that’s going to win. I think they’ve got a deeper, classier batting line-up, and I think they’ve got form on the board as well,” he concluded.