Pakistan players must enter World Cup with confidence that they can win: Moin Khan

F.P. Report

KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain and member of 1992’s victorious squad Moin Khan has said that self-belief will be key for Pakistan during the upcoming World Cup in England.

Speaking to private channel Khan said players must enter the World Cup with the confidence that they are the best and that they have the ability to beat any side of the world.

“Self-belief is must, it will be key,” Khan said when asked about what his message would be for this year’s World Cup squad.

“You will have to keep yourself on top. Go with the confidence that you’re the best and you can beat any team in the world and when you have this confidence, you start playing with passion and performance comes automatically,” Khan added.

Khan further said that the way batting has performed during the series against England has given him a new hope with the only thing needed to get going is the bowling.

He praised the way Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq have played during the series.

“It was great to see batting score big runs. Imam is one of the best players, Fakhar is in good form and Babar Azam is also scoring runs. It’s a good sign. It is true that bowling wasn’t up to the mark but the moment our bowling clicks, we’ll be able to beat any side in the world,” the former captain said.

He, however, added that with top order performing well and scoring runs, it would be difficult for selectors and management to adjust Abid Ali in the squad.

“Sometimes you’ve to make infamous decisions for benefit of the team. No player is neglected intentionally. Abid has a bright career ahead and if he’s axed from squad then he’ll surely get his due share in future events,” he said.

Responding to a question, Khan said the current Pakistan team has the opportunity to change the history of the country’s World Cup encounters against India.

“If we play the way we played against them in Champions Trophy, then I am sure team will be in a position to change the history of Pakistan’s win-less record against arch-rivals India in World Cup games,” he said.

Recalling his memories of 1992 World Cup, Khan said Imran’s leadership was an important factor behind Pakistan’s win in the tournament 27 years ago.

Another factor, according to Khan, was the way Javed Miandad performed during the tournament. “We need someone to be like Javed Miandad in the camp this time as well,” Khan said.

“Javed Miandad was the backbone of the team. He was instrumental in making our batting put runs on board,” he stated.

Speaking about favourites, Khan said that all teams are almost equal and you can’t term any team as favourites for the title as the format allows everyone to make a comeback and in this case momentum will be the key.

“All teams are good. Pakistan, India, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and England all have the chances. The one who gets the momentum on the right time will have a smooth sail in the tournament,” he added.