‘Thoroughly deserves to be in the final…’: Shoaib Akhtar lauds Team India | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan pace sensation Shoaib Akhtar has heaped praise on the Indian cricket team, asserting that their comprehensive 70-run victory over New Zealand in the semi-final at Wankhede Stadium has earned them a deserving place in the final.
India’s opening duo, led by captain Rohit Sharma and young talent Shubman Gill, set a fiery tone against the Kiwi bowlers. Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer‘s centuries further solidified India’s grip on the game, culminating in a formidable total of 397/3.

Expressing his admiration for the Indian team, Shoaib Akhtar stated on his YouTube channel, “India thoroughly deserves to be in the final, if you look at their batting, bowling, fielding and even their bench strength, if this team doesn’t deserve to reach the final then which team does?”

Akhtar specifically lauded Rohit’s captaincy skills and the aggressive start he provided in the opening overs. He commended the team’s collective batting effort, with special mentions for Gill and Iyer.
“India again brutally hammered New Zealand. All credit goes to Rohit Sharma as a captain. He hammers bowlers in the opening overs. If Gill stayed on the pitch, he could have completed his ton. Shreyas Iyer is an amazing talent; he is a guy who takes away a lot of pressure from the senior players. India deserves to be in the final.”

Looking ahead to the final opponent, Akhtar backed Australia but highlighted South Africa’s chance to turn the tide if they bat first and set a substantial total. “I feel Australia will reach the final; South Africa has only one chance to bat first and put up a total of 350 runs,” remarked the Rawalpindi Express.
As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of the Australia vs. South Africa clash, India’s stellar performance and all-round dominance have undoubtedly caught the attention and admiration of cricket pundits across borders.

(With inputs from ANI)