The Pakistani cricket team are getting ready for their sixth encounter at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 against their neighbours in Afghanistan. With two victories and two losses in their previous four matches, the Pakistan vs. Afghanistan rivalry has a history of intense battles. Cricket icon Shoaib Akhtar anticipates another fiercely contes🔴ted game, one that may ignite tempers on the field. Yet he believes this match transcends the cricket pitch, shaping up to be a contest for Pakistan against not only Afghanistan but also the fervent crowd and the playing conditions.

In a Twitter video, Akhtar issued a stern warning to Babar Azam’s squad, cautioning against underestimating Afghanistan. This will not be a one-sided competition, he claims.

“It’s more than just #PAKvsAFG. It’s Pakistan against the crowd. It’s Pakistan against the groundsmen. We are faced with a challenging battle that lies ahead. Afghanistan is not a pushover; they are a formidable team,” Akhtar emphasized in the video caption.

He describes this as a pivotal and high-stakes match, known for its potential to stir emotions and ignite rivalries. Akhtar is emphatic that Afghanistan is far from being an underdog in this encounter. He dispels the notion of “upset” and underscores that Afghanistan is a team on par with Pakistan. With their formidable spin-bowling arsenal, they pose a genuine threat to the Pakistani side. Akhtar emphasizes that Pakistan cannot afford to lose to Afghanistan or any other team in this competition.

Akhtar’s analysis suggests that the Chepauk pitches are likely to favor Afghanistan’s spinners significantly. Furthermore, the passionate crowd is expected to rally behind Afghanistan.

“Factors that favor Afghanistan include enthusiastic crowd support and favorable pitch conditions, particularly for spinners. Whether it’s day or night, the spinning track will work in their favor,” Akhtar opines.

Theไ context of the World Cup journey adds to the intrigue. Pakistan secured victories in their first two matches but faced defeats against India and Australia in subsequent games. Meanwhile, Afghanistan managed to upset the de🐲fending champions, England, but encountered losses against India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.

Fans can expect a hotly contested duel that will have them on the tip of their seats as both sides fight for their lives in t✨he tournament.