Karachi: World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan wants Pakistan and India to clash in the semi-final of this edition of the quadrennial event.
Speaking to a television channel after Pakistan thrashed the West Indies in a quarter final clash, on Wednesday, the cricketer-turned-politician said that he feels India will get the better of Australia in the second quarter final, on Thursday.
“I think India will beat Australia because their team is more suited to the conditions in this part of the world… Plus their batting is very strong,” Imran said.
Imran, who led Pakistan to the 1992 World Cup title, said he wanted to see an Indo-Pak semi-final because that would go in favour of the Pakistan side.
“Because of the home crowd pressure and the fear of losing to Pakistan at home, there will be far greater pressure on India while Pakistan remain the underdogs of the tournament,” he noted.
Imran, however cautioned the Pakistani people to not over-celebrate the quarter final victory.
“Remember, India play the spinners very well… Perhaps, they are the best players of spin today. That is why we should now forget about the quarter final and start planning ahead for the semi-final.
“I think, if India makes it to the semis, then we should think about attacking them with a stronger pace attack… Maybe even bring back Shoaib Akhtar for the match,” the former captain said.
He pointed out that if Shoaib was match fit and if conditions in Mohali were better for the pace bowlers then he would take a chance with the veteran speedster.
“He has not played in the last few matches but he remains a match-winner… Knowing that this is his final appearance for Pakistan, he could turn in a match-winning performance… I would take the gamble.”
Imran also supported the decision to play off-spinner Saeed Ajmal against the West Indies noting the strategy had worked well.
“But I would still say go in with more attacking options… I would still like to see Younis Khan and Misbah batting up the order because, in a high pressure match, you need your best players to hold the fort and sustain the pressure.”
