Dubai: Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has expressed his hope that the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash takes place at the upcoming T20 World Cup, citing the immense global following the rivalry commands.
“I really hope the India vs Pakistan match happens and they get the opportunity to play. Billions of fans across the world look forward to that contest,” Lee said on a podcast in Dubai.
The cricketer-turned-commentator, renowned for his blistering pace and fearsome presence, remains one of the most successful fast bowlers of the modern era. Lee finished his international career with 310 Test wickets, 380 wickets in 221 One-Day Internationals, and 28 wickets in T20Is for Australia.
Tournament favourites
When asked to choose a favourite between India and Pakistan, Lee admitted it was a difficult call. “Picking between India and Pakistan is like choosing your favourite son — it’s incredibly hard. Both teams are great. Let’s take politics out of it and focus purely on cricket. On paper, India look stronger, but the most important thing is that the match happens. Whenever these two teams play, the entire world watches.”
The T20 World Cup is scheduled to begin on February 7 and will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The tournament will feature 20 teams competing in 55 matches, with the final set to be played in Ahmedabad on March 8.
Discussing title contenders, Lee named India, Australia, England and New Zealand as the frontrunners, while identifying New Zealand as his dark horses. He predicted Australia to edge past India in the final, citing their balance, experience and proven winning mindset in major tournaments.
Highlighting players to watch, Lee tipped Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy as a potential leading wicket-taker. “This is the time of his life. His current form, combined with the pitches that will suit his style, makes this tournament perfect for him. He can completely bamboozle batters. This could be his World Cup.”
Among batters, Lee backed Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav to score heavily. “For me, it’s Suryakumar Yadav — SKY really is the limit.”
Importance of pace bowling
Lee also emphasised the continued importance of fast bowling in major tournaments. “Pace attacks remain key. It’s often easier to target spinners at the death, as batters are getting more inventive against spin and medium pace. But genuine pace is always dangerous, regardless of the format. Jasprit Bumrah is a freak of nature. He’s exceptional. I wish I had played alongside him — or had him in my team — because he’s that good.”
Lee was speaking at the Mr Cricket UAE podcast hosted by founder Anis Sajan.
Network Links
GN StoreDownload our app
© Al Nisr Publishing LLC 2026. All rights reserved.