In the last Super Four game of the Asia Cup 2023, Team India, led by captain Rohit Sharma, unexpectedly lost to Bangladesh by 6 runs. This was India’s first loss in the tournament.
India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to bowl first. Bangladesh scored 265 runs while batting first despite losing 4 wickets for just 59 runs. India, in their turn, managed to score only 259 runs, losing the match by six runs.
It’s worth noting that this Indian cricket team vs Bangladesh cricket team match didn’t have a significant impact on the tournament, as India had already secured their spot in the Asia Cup 2023 grand final by defeating Sri Lanka in their previous Super Four match.
Meanwhile, while reviewing India’s surprising loss to Bangladesh, former Pakistan player Shoaib Akhtar remarked that it served as a “wake-up call” for the Men in Blue, emphasizing the importance of not underestimating any opponent.
Shoaib also humorously noted that Bangladesh’s victory over the finalists of the Asia Cup 2023 had given Pakistani fans a reason to celebrate.
On his YouTube channel, Akhtar commented that Indian team’s defeat defeat in the match vs Bangladesh is a embarrassing loss. He mentioned that it wasn’t fair to be overly critical and acknowledged Bangladesh’s competitive spirit. Akhtar also drew a parallel with Pakistan’s previous criticism when they faced defeat.
He highlighted that Sri Lanka was a strong team, not an average one, just like Bangladesh. He expressed relief on behalf of Pakistan fans, including himself (probably with Pakistan’s 228 runs defeat vs India in mind), due to India’s loss, considering it a wake-up call for India about the importance of not underestimating teams after a few wins.
“Finally, some relief for the Pakistan fans, including me, that India have lost the game. Wake up call for India,” Akhtar said.
