Don't really crack your brains over the upcoming Champions Trophy?India-Pakistan clash. Because as far as numbers are concerned Team India holds the edge against it's arch-rivals. Like, for example, India have beaten Pakistan in seven of the 12 ODIs they've played against each other in the past 10 years. And have won a whopping seven of the eight T20Is.
Here are some statistics that can serve as a shot in the arm before you start cheering for the Men in Blue.
1. India have never lost a World Cup match to Pakistan. Both teams played their first WC match in 1992, where India won by 43 runs. Since then Pakistan have just been dreaming of winning a world cup match. Btw, the last time both teams crossed paths in 2015, India thrashed Pakistan by 76 runs.
2. Team India has also not lost to Pakistan in the T20 World Cup. Remember the thrilling final between India and Pakistan, where Joginder Sharma emerged as the hero? India clinched the inaugural World Cup and since then Pakistan haven't even come close enough to beat India.
3. Pakistan haven't beaten India in the Champions Trophy since 2009. Pakistanis managed to fire against MS Dhoni and company because the toss went in their favour. The 2013 Champions Trophy was actually redemption time when MS Dhoni and team won by eight wickets.
4. ?This fact can serve as a major motivation. India and Pakistan have faced each other in ICC encounters on 14 occasions. And they've smashed them to pulp 12 times.
5. ?The Indian Premier League has given Indian players a huge psychological advantage. They have limbered up for the Champions Trophy just right. Pakistan obviously will be taking the field after a dismal limited-overs season. It's advantage India, obviously.
6. Google up India's team and then Pakistan's team to the Champions Trophy. You will find the result lop-sided. India are obviously way powerful than Pakistan. Well, we haven't even heard of some players.
7. Indian team players have peaked at the right time. Shikhar Dhawan was struggling with his form before the IPL and now he's middling the ball like nobody's business. Rohit Sharma too has recovered from injury. In short, the entire Indian top order is delivering. And the Pakistani team doesn't even know who'll open the innings for them.
Now that the statistical picture is clear to you, gear up for another another India onslaught because the Men in Blue are certainly on an upward spiral.