India-Pakistan game just another match: Sourav Ganguly

"India versus Pakistan match is just another match. Those who play regularly... or when I used to play, I don't take Pakistan as any special match," former India skipper told media personnel during a promotional event here.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India president said while there was extra pressure in knockout games, it was not such in group league engagements.

Ganguly said Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul were all experienced players and knew "how to handle the pressure. "It's not a big matter for them."

The BCCI President does not believe that absence of Saheen Afridi from the Pakistan Team would make any difference to the game.

"I don't think so. No one player can make a difference. It's teamwork. We also don't have Jasprit Bumrah," he said.

The former Indian captain did not think any of the teams in the Asia Cup had any advantage over the rest.

"No one is at advantage, T20 is a different format. Those who will play better in those 2-3 hours will win. T20 game is having less recovery time," he said.

On the ex-factor in the Indian team, Ganguly said Rohit Sharma, Virat, Pant, Rahul, Hardik, everyone is good. Pakistan too has a good side. Babar Azam, Rizwan is also good.

On Virat Kohli's form, he said "Virat is a very big player. He is having own formula to make runs. He will make a comeback soon. We are all hopeful."

Ganguly also backed the inclusion of sportsmen in the administration of sports bodies.

On India's possibility in the World Cup and the Asia Cup, he said: "I am hopeful in the coming World Cup India will do well," he said.

Ganguly said Hardik Pandya's performance was a "brilliant addition" to the team. "Hardik is doing very well. Last year, he was injured, but this time he is also bowling."