We Are Weaker Compared to India: Shahid Afridi ahead of Champions Trophy clash

"If we talk about match-winners, I'd say that India has more match-winners compared to Pakistan. A match-winner is someone who knows how to win the game single-handedly. Right now, we don’t have such players in Pakistan. India's strength lies in its middle and lower order, which has been winning them matches. For a long time, we have been giving opportunities to players, but no one has stepped up consistently. Some have performed in a few games, but we don’t have players who have sustained their performance for a year, two years, or across 50-60 matches. That’s where we are a little weaker compared to India, which is very strong in this area. But the key to winning against India is collective performance—whether it's the batsmen, bowlers, or spinners—everyone’s contribution is crucial."

"I actually think Pakistan has an advantage because they have a base in Dubai. They have played a lot of cricket there and understand the conditions well. On slower wickets, Indian and Pakistani players are among the best, who have always played spin well. You talk about match-winners—yes, I agree with Shahid Afridi that we have more match-winners. But I believe that even if Pakistan has fewer match-winners, one player can still take the game away. The India-Pakistan clash is not about match-winners alone; it’s about playing in the moment, adapting to the situation, and not letting expectations overwhelm you. The team that does this better will win the game for their country."

"Never before has a team included five spinners in the squad, and there's a reason for that. There are no second chances in the Champions Trophy. In India's group, if you look at New Zealand, they have three left-handers—Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Tom Latham. Against them, you need an off-spinner. This has been a tradition since Roger Binny’s time. Back in 1983, when no one gave us a chance, all-rounders like Madan Lal and Roger Binny helped us win matches. Similarly, India now has quality all-rounders who bring depth to the squad. You can’t underestimate Dubai—this is not Sharjah; these are completely different conditions."

"There is no doubt that all Indian players are very good, but Virat and Rohit are in a league of their own. That’s because they have been performing consistently for nearly 20 years, and their impact on the team is massive. If they get out early, it will make a significant difference in India's dressing room, and Pakistan’s morale will rise. That doesn’t mean the rest of the Indian players won’t perform—they are very talented—but they are still developing. Similarly, when Babar Azam gets out for Pakistan, the opposition’s bowlers get a boost, and Pakistan’s dressing room feels the pressure. For Pakistan to win, the lower and middle order must step up. If India loses both Rohit and Virat early, Pakistan can gain an advantage."

"Rohit Sharma, whether in form or out of form, it doesn’t matter to me. I would always back my match-winners. In ODI cricket, especially in white-ball formats, he has been India’s biggest match-winner as a batsman, alongside Virat Kohli. If Rohit is struggling but still gets runs, that’s dangerous for the opposition. If he’s in form, he will score a century in 60 balls. That’s his quality—once he gets going, he’s not just hitting fours; he’s clearing the ropes with sixes. He is also one of the best players of the short ball. Even if someone bowls at 145-150 kmph, Rohit has the ability to hook it effortlessly. His strike rate is always between 120-140, and on his day, he can single-handedly win you the game."

"As a captain, Rizwan has to set an example for others—that is very important. He must perform in every game, and his attitude, body language, and leadership matter a lot. Being a captain comes with equal amounts of praise and criticism. His performance will be crucial, as he is the glue that holds the team together. He treats everyone equally, he is a fighter, and his energy on the field is infectious. I have seen him step up in big matches, and I am confident he will lead the team well”