Ravichandran Ashwin has declared the India-Pakistan rivalry as “bigger than the Ashes” ahead of the crucial weekend clash between the arch-rivals in World Twenty20 at Kolkata.
The two neighbours have gone to war on four occasions since independence and their now infrequent showdowns on the cricket pitch can bring both countries to a standstill.
Tonight’s match is only taking place as it is part of a tournament held by the ICC and had to be relocated from Dharamsala after fears over security for the Pakistan team.
Off-spinner Ashwin, who is India’s lead bowler, said that the players would try not to get caught up in all the excitement but acknowledged that it was no ordinary match.
“This rivalry is huge, it’s very hard to put a finger and tell how huge it is. It’s probably bigger than the Ashes is,” said Ashwin at Eden Gardens.
“As far as Indians and Pakistanis go, I don’t think they watch this as a game of cricket. It’s more of a border rivalry. They put their emotions into the game.
“For the players it’s trying keeping their emotions aside and playing the game the best way we can.”
Ashwin facts
- 32 T20 internationals.
- 35 wickets.
- Average: 26.
- Best figures: 4/8.
India were pre-tournament favourites before a shock loss against New Zealand in their opener on Tuesday and need to win their second group game to stay in the hunt for the semi-finals.
Ashwin though has no doubt in the team’s ability to bounce back and go on to become the first team to win the trophy twice.
“I think if ever there is an international team that can put that (the opening loss) behind, it is us,” said a confident Ashwin.
“From here on if we go through we will be probably more dangerous than we were at the start of the tournament.”
T20s between the two rivals sees the form book firmly in India’s favour having won five of seven, although the teams have met just twice in the last two years. Pakistan coach Waqar Younis has attempted to downplay the hype surrounding the game, saying it was ultimately just a game of cricket.
“We should take it as a sport,” said Younis, one of the most devastating bowlers in his day who.
“There is history between the two nations, not only culturally but also cricket history. The way we have played cricket in the past 50 years it’s a treat to watch for the world.”
“It’s the most watched game. So we should all cherish that and feel proud of it.”
An upbeat Pakistan come into the match after thrashing Bangladesh, but will have to overcome their World Cup jinx against India.
Pakistan have never won a World Cup encounter against their arch rivals in six 50-over meetings and four T20 clashes.
“History can always be changed,” said Younis. “We are a bit more confident this time. They can go out of the tournament and that is a big plus for us. They will be under more pressure. We have won our opening game and lot of things going in our favour.”