Wasim Akram warns 'favorites' Pakistan ahead of Asia Cup final

Pakistan's legendary pacer Wasim Akram has warned Babar Azam & Co. ahead of the Asia Cup 2022 final against hosts Sri Lanka.

The Men in Green cruised to the final after beating India and Afghanistan in the Super 4 stage, however, they lost to Sri Lanka in the dress rehearsal for the Asia Cup on Friday.

Speaking ahead of the blockbuster meeting between the former world champions, Sultan of Swing opined that Babar's men will enter the final as favorites to lift the famous trophy. However, Akram also warned Pakistan to avoid taking Sri Lanka lightly in the summit clash.

“The performance of the Pakistan team has been fabulous in this Asia Cup. However, in the game against Sri Lanka, the intent was missing in their batting. The bowling was decent though. Hopefully, they will learn from their mistakes. But still, I think, Pakistan are the favourite in the finals. But the exciting and young Sri Lanka team cannot be taken easy,” Akram told BBN Sports.

Wanindu Hasaranga powered Sri Lanka to an impressive win over Pakistan in the Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2022. Hasaranga returned figures of 3-21 to help Sri Lanka upstage Pakistan in the warm-up match ahead of the Asia Cup final.

“Pakistan cricket lovers have been saying that our middle order is a bit inexperienced, and it was exposed in the last Super 4 game after Rizwan got out. But it will be a good wicket in the final, hopefully, they come back stronger,” Akram added.