Pakistan, India set for Mirpur sequel

Archrivals to kick-start Super-10 stage in World Twenty20.

KARACHI:

The Super-10 stage of the World Twenty20 is all set for a scintillating kick-off as archrivals Pakistan and India gear up for the opening clash in Mirpur on Friday.

Led by Mohammad Hafeez, Pakistan are going in the crucial game with a slew of positives as well as negatives.

The 2009 champions are unarguably the most successful team in the previous four World Twenty20 editions — having played two finals and as many semi-finals. Their memorable triumph against India recently in the Asia Cup at the same venue gives them a psychological advantage.



However, Pakistan have to end a drought of victory against India in world championships. They have been on the downside in the previous eight games with five World Cup losses and three World T20 defeats. On the other hand, India have been boosted with the return of captain MS Dhoni who led the team to its 2007 World T20, 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy titles.

Captains ready for showdown

Despite suffering an eight-wicket defeat to South Africa in a warm-up match after being bowled out for 71 on Wednesday, Hafeez was upbeat about the team’s imminent challenge in the opening game.

“It [the loss] was a wake-up call for us and we are eyeing our best shot against India,” said the Pakistan captain on the eve of the crunch match.

He said that the March 2 Asia Cup win over India was inspirational for his side.

“We have good all-rounders like Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Malik, myself and Kamran Akmal. Hopefully, it will help us,” he said before admitting that Dhoni’s return will bolster India.

“Under Dhoni, India have achieved a lot in previous years and his captaincy is a key factor.”

The seasoned Pakistan all-rounder, however said that the past record was not a concern for him.

Dhoni agreed, saying that records hardly mattered before terming Pakistan a good side with good bowlers and all-rounders.

“It all depends what we do on the field,” said the Indian captain.

Pakistan may prefer seasoned campaigners

As the team management was mulling over the playing team against India, it was likely that experienced players may get preference in the pressure match.

“Players like Malik, Kamran are likely to be included in the playing eleven along with Afridi,” said an official close to the team management.

“In the bowling line-up Sohail Tanvir is also being considered because of his vast experience in the format. The reason to consider seniors is they can take pressure of this high intensity match.”

The official added that the final combination will be decided after assessing pitch conditions on Friday.

Meanwhile, former coach and chief selector Mohsin Khan urged the team management to include left-arm pacer Junaid Khan against India.

“Junaid is an aggressive fast-bowler. If Umar Gul bowls to his potential, both pacers can stun a strong Indian upper-order. Our spin attack is also an added advantage.”

Mohsin backed Kamran to open the innings with Ahmed Shahzad in place of misfiring Sharjeel Khan.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 21^st, 2014.

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