'If Babar starts playing, nobody can stop him': Indian legend to Rohit & Co.

Former Indian captain, Gundappa Viswanath, has advised the Rohit Sharma-led team not to become complacent with past records, emphasizing that "the past is history."

While speaking to a sports outlet, ahead of the India-Pakistan match in Ahmedabad, Viswanath shared his insights. He stated that Babar Azam's struggling form could turn around "anytime."

When asked about potential impact players for both India and Pakistan, Viswanath refrained from singling out specific individuals, acknowledging that anyone could shine on the given day and influence the game. He highlighted Rohit Sharma's ability to dominate as a captain and an opening batsman, emphasizing his capacity to handle pressure and dismantle bowlers once he finds his rhythm.

“I can’t really pinpoint because anybody can… on that particular day, they can win the game. Like Rohit Sharma he can win on his own being a captain, and plus, he opens the innings and he knows the pressure, how it is. And once he gets going, he can tear the bowlers apart, so he can do that," Viswanath said.

Viswanath also mentioned the skills of Virat Kohli, particularly in chasing scenarios.

“It also depends on how fit he (Shubman Gill) is. Whether the management also wants him to play. It all depends on how he feels. And of course Virat Kohli, everyone knows what kind of a batsman he is. And he’s already done. He’s got a brilliant knock against him. Especially when he’s chasing. We all know what kind of a batsman he is in India, chasing," he further added.

Viswanath acknowledged Pakistan's potential in batting, despite struggling in their bowling attack. He praised Babar Azam's elegance and acknowledged his ability to turn the game in Pakistan's favor when he finds his form.

“So, all in all, you can’t really pinpoint anybody. But you can’t just say only one person can win you the game. It’s a team game, of course. Whoever comes good to start with, they have to stay till the end. That’s what I feel. And Pakistan, probably I think they really struggle in the attack. But the batting is solid. Even though Babar Azam is not among runs, he can make runs comfortably. He’s a very classy player. These kinds of batsmen, they can come any time. And I hope it doesn’t come tomorrow. But, if he starts playing, nobody can stop him,” he concluded.