Cricket News: Kaif makes bold prediction ahead of IND vs PAK clash

Babar Azam blasted 151 runs against Nepal in the opening game of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, igniting the competition.

He looked in great touch ahead, and the Indian bowlers may encounter some difficulty when these two sides meet on September 2 in Pallekele.

Former India international Mohammad Kaif, on the other hand, is unconcerned about Pakistan's current form and is confident in Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah.

He stated that Pakistan's captain will have difficulty dealing with the Indian pacers, who are currently in excellent form.

Notably, Shami was fantastic in the series against the West Indies, while on his return, Bumrah showed his class, picking up four wickets in two matches against Ireland, finishing as the series' highest wicket-taker, and can be incredibly dangerous in the Asia Cup.

As a result, Kaif feels Babar will be unable to score as freely as he did against Nepal.

"Mohammed Shami is a fantastic bowler, his form is also very good. And even in Bumrah's absence, he managed the bowling very well. Even his form in the IPL was great. So he has a lot of talent. In my opinion, Babar Azam is going to have a lot of difficulty facing Mohammed Shami"

Kaif said on Star Sports.

Mohammed Shami, India's speedster, is optimistic about the team's chances in the upcoming Asia Cup. He stated that he is ready to bowl at any time during the game and does not have an ego.

The 32-year-old noted that both Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have worked hard with him, so he is optimistic about India's future success.

"I don't have any hesitancy to bowl with the new ball or the old ball. I don't have an ego like that. All three of us (Bumrah, Shami & Siraj) are bowling very well, so it depends on the management on who will play. There is only one goal, to go and give our 100%, the result will come running to us if we give our 100%. So it is very important to focus and execute, it's a very simple plan,"

Shami said.

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