Former Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar expressed frustration with fans who suggested that India intentionally “fixed the game” against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023. Despite India securing a spot in the final with a win, the first innings hinted at an upset as Sri Lankan spinner Dunith Wellalage took 5 wickets. Some fans messaged Akhtar, accusing India of deliberately losing to eliminate Pakistan, a claim he vehemently refuted. Discover Asia Cup 2023: “India Fixed The Game” Accusation Sees Shoaib Akhtar Lose His Cool.
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In a YouTube video, Akhtar criticized these baseless accusations, emphasizing Sri Lanka’s exceptional performance. He highlighted a 20-year-old Sri Lankan player who scored 43 runs and took 5 wickets, commending their dedication. Akhtar also questioned why India would intentionally lose a match that guaranteed their place in the final and praised India’s Kuldeep Yadav for his pivotal 4-wicket haul.
Akhtar further expressed disappointment with Pakistan’s lack of fight in their previous match against India. Moreover, he voiced concerns about the fitness and consistency of Pakistani pacers Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Afridi, urging the team to show more resilience.
With India already in the final, Pakistan’s path to the title-deciding contest depends on defeating Sri Lanka in their next match.
