Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has predicted that New Zealand will defeat the India in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. His remarks came during a discussion on a Pakistani television show ahead of the title clash.
Amir said New Zealand appears to be the stronger team overall and could have the advantage going into the final. "New Zealand is playing much more balanced cricket as a team. In the semi-final against South Africa, they showed team performance," he said.
The final is scheduled to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Amir questions India's bowling capabilities
During the discussion, Amir said India has depended heavily on the performances of Jasprit Bumrah and Sanju Samson during the tournament.
"On the other hand, India has won most matches relying on the performances of Bumrah and Sanju Samson," he said.
The former pacer also questioned the form of other Indian players. He raised concerns about the performances of Varun Chakravarthy and Hardik Pandya, saying the rest of India's bowling unit has not looked consistent.
Amir also suggested that New Zealand's bowling attack currently appears stronger than India's.
Prediction draws reactions online
Amir's latest prediction has attracted attention because he previously predicted defeats for India during several matches in the tournament. However, the results went the other way.
India defeated Pakistan in a one-sided group-stage match. The team also secured victories against the West Indies cricket team and the England cricket team to reach the final.
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Despite those outcomes, Amir maintained his view about India's chances in the final.
"Both teams are almost equally strong in batting, but the Kiwis are ahead in the bowling department. India is dependent only on Bumrah. So I think New Zealand will win," he said.
His remarks have triggered trolling from a section of cricket fans on social media, who pointed to his earlier predictions during the tournament.
