ICC World Cup 2019 | India will go all out against Afghanistan as well, says Harbhajan Singh
As India get ready to take on Afghanistan at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton today, Harbhajan Singh expects nothing less than 100 percent effort from the Men in Blue. The two-time World Cup winners and one of the tournament favourites, India have enjoyed a fine run in this edition so far.
Coming into the World Cup, India had four tough opening fixtures against South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Pakistan. But, the Men in Blue have come through with three comprehensive wins, with the New Zealand game getting abandoned due to rain. Now, they move on to Southampton to take on minnows Afghanistan who have lost all their five matches so far. But, Harbhajan Singh is certain that India will not take the foot off the gas.Â
"You have to play at your best no matter who is playing in front of you. It cannot happen that you just put 70 percent effort but give 100 percent against Australia. India won't relax in any conditions, in any match because they want to win every game,” Harbhajan told India Today.
Indian batsmen may find some comfort that the Afghan spin trio of Rashid Khan, Mohammed Nabi, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman are familiar foes from the IPL. But, in particular, Rashid has had a miserable World Cup so far, with a spell of 0/110 from 9 overs against England. However, the Turbanator came to the young spinner’s defence. Bhajji said that Rashid has the talent to trouble any batsmen but needs to be patient in prizing out his opponents.Â
"Rashid has got all the qualities to be a top bowler. He has got a brilliant googly and variations. He needs to learn a little better than what he is being doing in 20-20 cricket. People go after him in that format but in 50-over cricket batsmen have a lot of time against him," the offie explained.
