JOIN USPakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez didn’t attach too much significance to India’s unbeaten record against Pakistan in the two of the three ICC events — the World Cup and World T20.
“As far as history is concerned, we don’t really look into it,” remarked Pakistan’s T20 skipper on Thursday, the eve of his team’s clash with India here. Since the 1992 World Cup, Pakistan have lost to India on all the five occasions they have met and thrice in the World T20s (twice in South Africa in 2007 — including a defeat in a bowl out after a tie — and once in Sri Lanka in 2012).
“We know that every day will give you the opportunities to do well and, we as a team, are looking forward to the India match. So whatever happens, good or bad, it is always history and that will not count for much. We always want to perform well against each and every team,” he noted.
Hafeez admitted that Pakistan’s experience of playing matches in Bangladesh would stand them in good stead. “Yes it will definitely help us as we were here for the Asia Cup as well. The boys are very much familiar with these conditions and that is going to really help the team. At the same time, the Indian team has also got similar sort of experience playing in Bangladesh. So both teams have got the experience of playing in these conditions and everyone has to play well to win the game.”
Afridi’s form, Hafeez felt, is a big boost for them. “He is in good form and we have seen that in Asia Cup. It’s a good sign for us because we always wanted him to bat lower in the order and finish the game well for Pakistan. It is always great to know that he is in great form and good frame of mind. It is always great that your senior player is looking forward for the challenges up front.”