Pakistan have gone off to a flying start in the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE by winning both of their first Super 12 round matches against India and New Zealand. The Babar Azam-led team has emerged as favourites to win the tournament this year.

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has called Team India’s defeat against Pakistan an early wake-up call and every league match for Team India is a must-win game.

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Pakistan’s victory over New Zealand has almost ensured their place in the semi-final from group 2. Now, India and New Zealand will play on October 31 and the winner of that match is likely to occupy the other spot for the semi-finals.

Harbhajan Singh also called the match between India and New Zealand a virtual quarter-final.

“The match against New Zealand is not a virtual quarter-final. Afghanistan can upset anyone, we can’t take them lightly,” Harbhajan told India Today.

“We must beat New Zealand first and then think about the other games. From now onwards, all the matches are a kind of must-win game for Team India,” he added.

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Despite losing their first game against Pakistan, Harbhajan Singh backed Team India to bounce back strongly and win their remaining matches.

“The loss against Pakistan is a wake-up call for Team India. I am sure they will come back stronger against New Zealand,” said the veteran spinner.

“India have a very good side, they just had an off day against Pakistan. I still back India to beat New Zealand, knowing the quality we have in this team. They just need to go out there and showcase their talent,” he added.

Pakistan will be playing Afghanistan in their next league game on October 29 while India and New Zealand will face each other on October 31 in Dubai.