Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag has taken a swipe at Pakistan’s bowling attack, suggesting that he should have had an average of 200 against them. The remark came in response to Pakistan’s dwindling chances of making it to the semi-finals of the 2023 World Cup after New Zealand’s victory over Sri Lanka.
Pakistan’s hopes relied heavily on a Sri Lankan win, but the setback has made their task against England even more challenging. To secure a semi-final berth, Babar Azam’s team now needs to defeat England by at least 287 runs in their final group match.
Sehwag, known for his outspoken nature, had earlier stirred controversy with a ‘Pakistan Zindabhaag’ tweet, hinting at Pakistan’s premature exit from the tournament. This tweet sparked a heated exchange between fans from both sides of the border.
In response to a Pakistan fan claiming their bowlers troubled Sehwag, an Indian fan pointed out Sehwag’s impressive average of nearly 91 against Pakistan. Sehwag quoted this tweet and took a dig at Pakistan’s bowling attack.
“Nahi yaar, Wasim bhai ke retirement ke baad jaise yeh thhey, 200 ki avg honi chahiye tha inke saath. But jo bhi ho, tab bhi aur ab bhi Inke Mazzey lene mein maza aata hai.” Translated, he expressed that considering the quality of Pakistan’s bowling after Wasim Akram’s retirement, he should have had an average of 200 against them, but regardless, it is still enjoyable to play against them,” he wrote on X.
Sehwag’s comment adds to the speculation that an India-New Zealand semi-final is imminent, as many former cricketers have already accepted this likelihood. Meanwhile, Pakistan faces a tough challenge against England, and the cricketing world eagerly awaits the outcome of their final group match.