The much-anticipated face-off between India and Pakistan is bound to revive their age-old rivalry on the cricket field, with both nations set to take on each other in the biggest T20 World Cup clash to be played in New York this Sunday.
Making their intent known prior to the all-important game, India captain Rohit Sharma said the team will do everything to put their best foot forward at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.
"For us, we just need to think that it's something that we need to beat these guys and for that we need to play well against them. So, there is a whole lot that we need to do," Rohit said in a video released by the broadcasters Star Sports.
India have an unbeaten record against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup, having defeated the Men in Green on six occasions in as many meetings. And the Virat Kohli-led side want to make it seven out of seven.
"Absolutely electrifying," said Indian cricket's numero uno Virat Kohli, referring to the atmosphere created inside and outside the stadium, characterizing it as beyond anything else he'd ever experienced.
"World Cup is a different emotion, different feeling and you can sense that build up. There is nervousness in the air and everyone is buzzing. I love those moments and we play for such moments. It is very fortunate to experience it," Kohli remarked.
He further elaborated on the significance of the pre-match buzz and the charged atmosphere, emphasizing its role in making the occasion truly special.
"The atmosphere outside the stadium, all these things are not quite noticed or spoken about but leads up to the game like this which makes it so special. The moment I stepped on the field, I felt that energy in the stadium. Everyone was waiting for that game to start and you can feel that palpable energy in the air," Kohli added.
India commenced their campaign with a convincing eight-wicket victory over Ireland, while Pakistan faced an unexpected setback, suffering defeat against co-host USA in their opening Group A encounter.
