On the eve of the T20 World Cup clash in Colombo, Salman Ali Agha faced the media with calm assurance. The Pakistan captain addressed every major talking point ahead of Sunday’s high-voltage encounter against India.
The build-up to the match has not been smooth. Political tension and weeks of boycott-related debate had cast a shadow over the fixture. Agha, however, chose to keep the focus firmly on cricket.
“This game should be played in good spirits,” he said. “What has happened off the field is separate. Once we step onto the ground, it is about cricket.”
Pakistan’s record against India in ICC World Cups has not been flattering. Agha admitted that reality but refused to dwell on it. “We do not have a great record against them in World Cups,” he acknowledged. “But every match is a new contest.”
The captain also brushed aside the significance of the toss. In conditions where weather could play a role, many believe the coin flip may be decisive. Agha disagreed. “Toss cannot decide the game. If you play good cricket, you will win. Cricket will matter, not the toss.”
One of the recurring debates has been around spinner Usman Tariq and his unorthodox action. Questions have been raised despite him being cleared in the past. Agha made his position clear. “Usman has been cleared twice by the ICC. I do not know why there is still talk about his action. He is not bothered by it.”
He was equally firm when asked about the form of senior batter Babar Azam. The captain expressed full confidence in his star player and showed no concern.
Interestingly, Agha also spoke about India opener Abhishek Sharma, who is recovering from a stomach illness. “I hope Abhishek plays tomorrow. I hope he recovers well. We want to play against the best,” he said, signalling respect for the opposition.
Another question centred on the handshake issue that drew attention in a previous India–Pakistan meeting. Talking about ‘Handshake drama’ of India Pakistan, Agha smiled and replied, “We will find out tomorrow.”
With rain forecast and tension simmering in the background, the stage is set. But if Agha’s words are anything to go by, Pakistan want the contest to be decided purely by the quality of cricket on the field.
