Cricket’s most famous rivalry resumes as hosts India take on arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing World Cup in Ahmedabad.

Millions are expected to watch Saturday’s game in the 132,000-capacity stadium, which has been dubbed the “blockbuster event” of the tournament.

With their first two wins, both sides have made confident starts to the tournament.

India v Pakistan is one fixture where past performances do not guarantee victory. This is the ultimate test of skill, preparation, strategy, and above all, nerves.

Players have to keep the noise out and treat the match like any other game when millions of cheering fans see the match as a war.

There are players on both teams who are capable of putting up a performance worthy of such a momentous occasion.

As a result of India’s uncanny record of winning all seven World Cup matches against Pakistan, they begin as firm favourites.

The visitors, however, are unpredictable.

In September, they entered the Asia Cup as the world’s top one-day team, but fell short in the semi-finals. Pakistan can, however, dismantle any team when it’s their day.

It is Babar Azam, their charismatic but often understated captain, who is responsible for their batting prowess. In addition to his sublime stroke play, what makes him special is his ability to switch gears effortlessly.

It’s almost as if he’s hiding in plain sight while pacing his innings. By the time his opponents realize what is happening, his score has reached the 50s or 60s, and he has started hitting fours and sixes like crazy. Furthermore, he remains calm on the field and gives little away, no matter what happens.