T20 World Cup 2021: It’s all about handling pressure – Kapil Dev on key to success in IND-PAK matches

Former Indian skipper Kapil Dev reckons the players who will handle the pressure well and play while having fun, will have a greater chance of succeeding in high-octane India vs Pakistan matches.

There are always high expectations whenever these two arch-rivals take on each other and the players who have handled the pressure, have performed well.

India has an unbeaten record in World Cup matches against Pakistan and they seemed to have their wood on the Men in Green. In fact, India has also beaten Pakistan on all five occasions in the T20 World Cup fixtures.

The former legendary all-rounder feels it is difficult to perform up to the mark if the team is taking pressure in a big match. Earlier, Indian captain Virat Kohli had stated that he has never felt any kind of pressure while playing against Pakistan at the top level.

Kapil Dev said while talking to ABP news, “It all depends on pressure and pleasure. If you are enjoying the game or are under pressure. If you take too much pressure, then you will not get the desired performances. The chances of winning the game increase for the team who believes in having fun while playing.”

Meanwhile, the former World Cup-winning captain noted that the players can get recognition if they perform well in India vs Pakistan match while a big player can lose out his respect if he fails to live up to the expectations.

“Players get recognition by doing well in IND-PAK matches. If a youngster comes out and performs well, then he gets global recognition. Whereas, if a senior player does not do well, then it can hurt his reputation,” Kapil Dev added.

India will look to continue their domination in the big matches against Pakistan whereas the Babar Azam-led team will look to turn the tide. Virat Kohli-led team will enter the contest as favorites but it would be foolish to rule out Pakistan, as they can surprise any team on their day. India and Pakistan will take on each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 24th October.