Shoaib Akhtar wants Asian dominance in Champions Trophy

Dubai: Shoaib Akhtar isn’t just predicting the Champions Trophy semi-finalists — he’s hoping for an all-Asian final four. The Rawalpindi Express wants Afghanistan to get their revenge over Australia, Pakistan to triumph over India, and the subcontinent to dominate the tournament.

“Among the Champions Trophy semi-finalists, it has to be Afghanistan,” Akhtar declared, adding that he wants them to avenge their World Cup heartbreak against Australia.

Afghanistan came agonisingly close to a historic win over Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup, reducing them to 91 for seven in a tense group-stage clash. But Glenn Maxwell’s breathtaking double century turned the tide, denying them a semi-final spot by just two points. They didn’t have to wait long for redemption — Afghanistan stunned the cricketing world by reaching the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup, proving they belong among the elite.

Praise for Afghanistan and Younis Khan

“I want Afghanistan’s people to win, and I wanted to encourage them. Afghanistan have one of the best teams in the world — fitness and skill-wise,” Akhtar said.

He was full of praise for former Pakistan captain Younis Khan, who will be part of Afghanistan’s coaching staff for the Champions Trophy. Afghanistan coach John Trott has made a habit of bringing in cricketing legends with local expertise to guide the team in major tournaments. Ajay Jadeja was recruited for the World Cup in India, Dwayne Bravo assisted in the West Indies, and now, with Pakistan hosting the Champions Trophy, Younis Khan’s knowledge of conditions could be a game-changer.

“Younis Khan can teach them the patience required in batting. You should just be patient in batting. The minute they score 170-plus runs against Australia, Afghanistan is winning. My heart goes out to Afghanistan because I love that country and the nation. Their intent toward cricket is just beautiful, and the amount of joy they bring to the game is incredible. Deep inside my heart, I am a Pathan.”

Pakistan vs India: A clash to remember

The fearsome pacer, dubbed the Rawalpindi Express, is backing Pakistan to get the better of India in their Group A showdown in Dubai on February 23. But he hopes the two rivals meet again — this time in the final.

“I want Pakistan to beat India on February 23. However, irrespective of what happens in the match, I want them to face each other once again. I want Afghanistan in the top four. Bangladesh is not an easy team, and I always say they are one of the bravest and smartest nations. This is the team that actually does wonders. I want these four teams to go out there and do wonders.”

Pakistan must deliver on home soil

Akhtar is confident that Pakistan is ready to host a major tournament again, crediting the Pakistan Cricket Board for ensuring the stadiums are prepared. Now, he says, it’s up to the team to deliver.

“Hats off to the Pakistan Cricket Board for getting the stadiums ready. A big tournament has come to the country after 20 years, and now it is time for the people of Pakistan to show their support.

“I am not getting into the selection process, but there is a lot of criticism for Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah’s selection. You have to prove your selection right,” he said.

With the Champions Trophy returning to Pakistan after two decades, Akhtar believes the stage is set for history to be made.

“Now make sure you go out and win it.”