Waqar skeptic of Pakistan's Champions Trophy odds
Aussies can never be ruled out in big international events, says the former coach
(Web Desk) – Waqar Younis, former Pakistani pacer of ‘2Ws’ fame has listed out his picks for potential Champions Trophy winners and Pakistan is not among his list, Crictracker reported on Monday.
In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Younis said: “There are three or four teams that stand out. England at home look the team to beat. They have a very long and attacking batting line-up and give the opposition bowlers no respite. Their approach to the limited-overs formats is very impressive.”
The former Pakistani coach did not consider his home boys, Pakistan eleven to potentially be the winning side.
He is not the first ex-cricketer to voice his skepticism over Pakistan’s win but Ramiz Raja cited lack of power hitting as one of the main reasons he did not think the green shirts could deliver.
Since Indians are participating in the mega event straight out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2017, the fact that they have not practiced the 50-over format before the big tournament might cost the trophy to the defending champions, according to Younis.
Aussies can never be ruled out in big international events, that is just how it goes, he added while answering the question.
“The other team that really impresses me is Australia – they can never be ignored when it comes to any major tournament. I think the quality of cricket should be superb, especially as the 50-over format has evolved so much recently with scores of 300 now just being par. If I had to pick one team who I think are the favorites, I would say it’s England,” Waqar Younis said.
