Champions Trophy: Why do India have an edge over Pakistan?
India and Pakistan are set to clash in the most awaited match of 2017 Champions Trophy. Last time, the teams faced each other in an ODI, was in the 2015 World Cup; where India defeated Pakistan by 76 runs. The data also shows that India have clearly dominated Pakistan in ICC tournaments. Let us have a look why this match won't be any different.
A traditional strength of the Indian team
Indian openers Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma and the middle order comprising of Yuvraj Singh, Kedar Jadhav and MS Dhoni could prove a nightmare for the Pakistan's bowlers. The experience of Dhoni and Yuvraj would definitely give India an edge over the rather young and inexperienced bowling side of Pakistan. Dhoni has an impressive average of 76.5 in the India-Pakistan games played since 2010.
Balanced attack of spinners and pacers
India's pace bowling attack will be led by Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Umesh Yadav, all of whom have a good record in English conditions and have also proved themselves in the recent warm up matches. Apart from the trio, death overs specialist Jasprit Bumrah will be a big threat to Pakistan. The pacers will be complimented by Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja.
Hardik Pandya - A surprise package?
A recent success in the IPL, Hardik Pandya brings balance in the seam department of India, as well as in the middle order batting. He could prove to be a surprise package for Pakistan's batsmen when used in the middle overs of the game.
Fitter and healthier side
With Dhoni behind the stumps, Kohli in slips along with Yuvraj at square leg, India have one of the best fielding sides in the world. It has been a rare sight to see Indian fielders missing a catch in recent matches, as compared to Pakistan's sloppy fielding. India have also worked on their fitness and clearly hold an edge over Pakistan in this department.
The key to India's win
Virat Kohli has been the most consistent Indian player to perform against Pakistan since 2012. He was the Man of the Match against Pakistan in 2012 and 2016 Asia Cup, 2016 World T20 and 2015 World Cup. Kohli has played 10 ODI matches against the neighbours and has scored 373 runs at an average of 41.44, hitting two centuries.
In conclusion
India have a balanced team than Pakistan and have got all the areas on the field covered. India's win percentage since 2010 has been 66.67%, defeating Pakistan in every two of the three games played. We believe Sunday's match would be a cakewalk for India.
