Calling it a “big World Cup match,” Ganguly highlighted the intensity and pressure surrounding encounters between the arch-rivals, while expressing confidence in India’s strength.
The fixture became a major talking point even before the tournament began, after Pakistan briefly announced a boycott. The move came amid tensions following Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the tournament, after the ICC rejected their request to shift matches outside India due to security concerns.
Pakistan later reversed its stance following discussions involving the ICC, PCB, and BCB, with the government officially directing the team to take the field in Colombo.
Speaking about the high-stakes encounter, Ganguly said, “It will be a big World Cup match. The match is on 15th February, it is not going to be easy for Pakistan to defeat India. India is a very good team.”
Ganguly also praised the overall quality of the tournament so far, noting strong performances from even associate teams. He highlighted Abhishek Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and Ishan Kishan as some of his favourite Indian players in the competition.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s initial boycott, Ganguly expressed surprise and disappointment. “Backing out of a World Cup for what? They are playing in Sri Lanka, in any case. I am surprised by Pakistan backing out. In a World Cup, every point is important,” he added.
India began their campaign on a positive note, defeating USA by 29 runs, with skipper Suryakumar Yadav leading from the front with an unbeaten 84.
