COLOMBO, Feb 14,  (V7N): Pakistan captain Salman Agha said Saturday that his team is “always ready” for the blockbuster T20 World Cup clash against India, set for Sunday at the sold-out R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

The match, the biggest and most lucrative in world cricket, was only confirmed late Monday after the Islamabad government reversed its initial boycott order. The stadium’s 35,000 seats are packed, with hundreds of millions expected to watch on television.

“This is a very big game and the magnitude is huge. We were always ready for the game, whatever the decision,” Agha said ahead of Pakistan’s final practice session.

Pakistan enters the match in strong form, having edged past the Netherlands in a thrilling last-over win and beaten the United States by 32 runs. India has also won both of their group matches.

Agha highlighted the importance of playing quality cricket to secure victory and praised spinner Tariq Usman as Pakistan’s trump card. “Tariq has been bowling well, and I am sure the mystery element will make him our key weapon,” he said, dismissing doubts over the legality of Tariq’s unique sling-arm action.

The captain also expressed hope for a sportsmanlike encounter, contrasting with tensions in their three Asia Cup meetings in Dubai last year.

Weather could be a factor, with rain forecast for Sunday evening. The winner will earn a place in the Super Eights round.

Agha also wished a speedy recovery to India’s explosive opener Abhishek Sharma, who has been struggling with a stomach bug. “We want to play against the best. Good luck to him,” he added.

END/WSP/RH