Shoaib Akhtar refers to India as ‘the rich kid on the block’ who invites ‘poor kids’ to beat them: ‘Lo main jeet gaya’

In the final, India piled up 255 on the back of half-centuries from Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, and Sanju Samson. Jasprit Bumrah then picked up four wickets as New Zealand were bundled out for 159. Speaking after the victory, Akhtar congratulated India on their third T20 World Cup title, joking that they have become the ultimate powerhouse, treating other teams like schoolboys.

As Akhtar made this sweeping statement, the other panellists on the show, such as Sana Mir, Mohammad Hafeez, Umar Gul and Saqlain Mushtaq, burst out laughing.

"It is the testament of their policies, system and merit. There could have been a case where money was not utilised properly. Gautam Gambhir took the risk and brought Sanju Samson into the mix. Abhishek Sharma is young and brash; he needs to learn a lot. But Samson is very mature," said Akhtar.

"India showed how they give chances to the right players. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli said goodbye and now India have gone on to win the World Cup. With the speed they are going, it's ominous," he added.

He also mentioned that India are the favourites for the upcoming 50-over World Cup in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe next year. “If you get the trophy today, take it today only,” said Akhtar.

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