‘Match against India is always a big match’

Umar Gul says the team is ready to face India in the upcoming clash at the World Cup semi-final in Mohali.

MOHALI: Pakistani fast bowler Umar Gul on Monday said that the team was ready to face India in the upcoming clash at the World Cup semi-final.

Addressing a press conference in Mohali, Gul said that that cricket is a sport that is enjoyed by both countries and people on both sides of the border want India and Pakistan to play against each other.

“The more we play against each other, the better the relations will be between both countries,” said Gul.

Responding to a question by the Indian press, Gul said that the Pakistan side had reviewed the pitch at Mohali, adding that he hoped the pitch is one that supports his bowling attack.

Gul also clarified that there was no conflict between the management and Shoaib Akhtar and that the Rawalpindi Express was training hard for the match.

The bowler said that both India and Pakistan have pressure on them adding that the team is receiving a lot of support from fans back home.

“No doubt the batting line up is strong but our bowling is doing very well as well. I am happy with my performance,” said Gul in a reply to another question regarding the strength of the Indian team.

Gul added that the morale of the batsmen had also been boosted in the quarter-final against West Indies.

“Match against India is always a big match,” said the Pakistani attack bowler.

He also informed that that he has received immense help from having two great bowlers, Waqar Younis and Aqib Javed, as coaches in the team.

To a question about the recent scandals that Pakistan had to face, Gul said “We have been under pressure due to scandals for the past five weeks, but we beat New Zealand in New Zealand and have been doing well.”

He said the most important factor in the team’s performance is the environment of the dressing room. “The main thing is unity,” he said adding that before every match, all the players make it a point to support each other.