NEW DELHI: The build-up to any India-Pakistan clash always adds fuel to the fire, and with the Asia Cup match still nearly three weeks away, the verbal volleys have already begun. Former Pakistan cricketer Bazid Khan criticised India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, questioning his record against the arch-rivals.
In the five matches Suryakumar Yadav has played against Pakistan so far, he has managed 64 runs at an average of 12.80 and a strike rate of 118.51, with his highest score being 18.
"Suryakumar scores runs against almost everyone, but somehow, against Pakistan, he hasn't been effective. Whether it is the pace attack or some other reason, it remains an issue," said Bazid Khan on the 'Game On Hai' show.
The upcoming Asia Cup will pose a fresh challenge for India, as it marks the team's first major T20 tournament since the retirements of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja following their triumphant T20 World Cup campaign last year.
Bazid believes India will undoubtedly feel the absence of the trio's experience, adding that the team is likely to miss Jadeja's presence even more than that of Rohit and Kohli.
"Look, all these players are high-class. There isn't anyone here you would say is not of that calibre. But the high intensity that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma brought to the game, that is something India will surely miss," said Bazid.
“The absence of Ravindra Jadeja is also an issue. Axar Patel might be there, but Jadeja was exceptional in fielding as well," he added.
