NEW DELHI: Former Indian all-rounder
Irfan Pathan
has highlighted the crucial role the
New York pitch
is likely to play in the highly anticipated
India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match
on Sunday.
Pathan expressed his concern over the pitch's unpredictable nature, emphasizing that the marquee clash should ideally be played on a "good pitch" to ensure a fair contest where the stronger team prevails.
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Recent matches at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York have raised eyebrows due to the inconsistent bounce observed on the newly laid drop-in pitches. These conditions have favored low-scoring encounters, potentially impacting the quality of cricket on display during the tournament.
Pathan emphasized the significance of the toss, stating that the team winning the toss might be tempted to bowl first, considering the pitch's unpredictable bounce.
"The impact of winning or losing the toss will impact the bowling if the team chooses to take the stance first," Pathan explained. "The pitch might have an unexpected bounce and the teams need to face that, they might lose a wicket too."
He further stressed that a high-profile encounter like India versus Pakistan deserves a balanced playing surface, allowing both teams to showcase their true potential. "
India vs Pakistan
match should happen on a good pitch so that the strong team wins and India is a strong team," Pathan asserted.
While India have already played two matches in New York, winning comfortably against Ireland and Bangladesh, Pakistan will be stepping onto the unfamiliar surface for the first time after suffering a shock defeat to the USA in their opening match in Dallas.
While India might hold a slight advantage having adapted to the conditions, Pakistan will be determined to overcome their recent setback and the unfamiliar pitch to make a statement against their arch-rivals.
It remains to be seen how the pitch will ultimately influence the outcome of the match and whether it will allow for a fair contest between bat and ball.
(Inputs from IANS)
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