T20 World Cup 2026: ‘Should not listen to outside noise’ – Babar Azam on importance of staying relaxed in India vs Pakistan face-off

Star cricketer Babar Azam has reflected on the burden of expectations that any India versus Pakistan match brings to the table. As the two arch-rivals are once again going to cross swords, the stage at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, is all set for Match No. 27 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 for a mouthwatering encounter on Sunday, February 15.

Babar also addressed the shambolic record that the Pakistanis carry against the Indian team in multinational events in the recent past. He is also aware of the intensity and the expectations to perform in such a high-pressure match but knows that it is important to approach the game with a relaxed mindset. The experienced batter also stressed the importance of paying attention on the field, rather than to the outside noise.

“Like it has been talked about, the Pakistan versus India clash is always filled with high intensity. Fans from both the countries are involved, and in fact, the entire world is watching you play. So the expectations hit a different level. We’ve had our learnings from the clash in the past but know that it is important to keep ourselves cool and relaxed. Yes, the excitement is always there, but as much as you can keep your attention, the results can be favourable,” Babar told ESPNcricinfo.

Babar has entered the T20 World Cup on the back of poor outings in the shortest format of the game. His stint with the Sydney Sixers in the BBL was highlighted for all the wrong reasons, but he seemed to have found his mojo back in the tournament opener against the Netherlands with his 46. However, he perished for a paltry 15 against the United States of America, once again raising questions over his consistency.

The Group A clash on Sunday becomes even spicier, as the winner of this match will make a direct entry to the Super Eights with another match remaining. Speaking of the Men in Blue, they are topping the table with four points at a superlative net run-rate (NRR) of 3.050, whereas the Salman Ali Agha-led side has as many points but at a rate of 0.932.

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