The India-Pakistan cricket rivalry never fails to spark debates, and this time, former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has added fuel to the fire.
Heโs challenged India to a full-fledged seriesโ10 Tests, 10 ODIs, and 10 T20Isโif they truly believe they are the superior team. Itโs a bold statement, but one that resonates with many Pakistan cricket fans.
“Letโs Settle This on the Field”
Speaking on the matter, Saqlain acknowledged Indiaโs recent dominance but questioned whether their superiority would hold up in a long-format series against Pakistan.
“If we keep politics aside, their players are very good, and they have been playing good cricket. But if you are really a good team, then let’s play 10 Tests, 10 ODIs, and 10 T20Is against Pakistan. That would settle everything.”
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His remarks came after Pakistanโs six-wicket defeat to India in the ICC Menโs Champions Trophy 2025โa match that reignited discussions about the supposed one-sided nature of the rivalry. Many fans, particularly in India, argue that Pakistan no longer poses a serious challenge.
Can Pakistan Compete?
Saqlain Mushtaq believes that Pakistan has the talent to match India, but only if the team focuses on proper preparation.
“If we get our preparation right and set things in the right direction, we will be in a position to give solid answers to the world and India as well.”
Itโs a fair point. Pakistan has shown flashes of brilliance in ICC events, but inconsistency has often been their downfall. The lack of bilateral cricket between the two teams due to political tensions hasnโt helped, either.
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Their last full series was back in 2012-13, and since then, theyโve only clashed in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup.
Will India Accept the Challenge?
Realistically, a 10-match series in all three formats is a long shot. The India-Pakistan cricket relationship is dictated by diplomacy more than sport.
But Saqlainโs challenge does make one wonder: how would Pakistan fare if given the chance to play consistently against one of the best teams in the world?
For now, though, fans will have to settle for ICC and Asia Cup encounters. Whether India responds to Saqlainโs challenge or not, one thing is certainโthis debate isnโt dying down anytime soon.
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