Ian Smith looking forward to New Zealand's 'grudge match' against Pakistan

Former New Zealand cricketer Ian Smith believes that the encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at the T20 World Cup will be a 'grudge match' and he is eagerly waiting for both teams to go head-to-head.

Earlier last month, emotions ran high when New Zealand unilaterally decided to pull out of the series against Pakistan due to 'security threats'.

“It’s a bit of a grudge match now on the basis that New Zealand pulled out of the tour over there just recently and came home, which didn’t please Pakistan at all,” said Smith, according to Stuff, who is also a renowned commentator.

“We were right in doing what we did but it doesn’t ease the pain for them so there will be feeling in that game. It’s the first game that we play and I think there will be a real edge to that one so I’m looking forward to it,” he further added.

ALSO READ: New Zealand confirm talks with Pakistan over rescheduling tour

The cancelation of New Zealand's tour had much deeper implications as PCB was tirelessly repairing Pakistan's image on the international stage ever since the 2009 terrorist attack on Sri Lanka's team.

"This conspiracy has been hatched to tarnish the image of Pakistan, as its image was going to build up due to the role it is playing for peace in the region," said Federal Interior Minister, Sheikh Rasheed.

Pakistan will face New Zealand on October 26 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.