World Cup 2015: Pakistan's Best Chance vs Australia is in Adelaide, says Imran Khan
Pakistan are likely to set up a quarterfinal clash versus World Cup 2015 co-hosts Australia if they can beat Ireland in their last group match on Sunday.
Former captain Imran Khan is confident that Pakistan will be able to book a World Cup 2015 quarterfinal berth. The World Cup-winning captain feels that Pakistan can win the Cup of Cups once again and should be able to put it across Australia, en route to the semifinals. (Complete World Cup coverage | Points Table | Stats)
Adelaide, the venue that is scheduled to host the much expected Australia versus Pakistan quarterfinal on March 20, is a "favourable" venue for Misbah-ul-Haq's team, Imran has been quoted in media reports. (I am not Virat Kohli, says Angry Umar Akmal)
"Adelaide is a slow pitch and Pakistan's best chance of beating Australia is in Adelaide," Imran said, adding that if Pakistan beat Australia, "nobody can stop them from winning the World Cup". ('Pakistan as inspired as 1992's World Cup-winning side')
Imran was captain when Pakistan staged a stunning turnaround and won the World Cup in 1992 in Australia. But to advance to the quarterfinals, Pakistan must beat Ireland in Adelaide on Sunday.
The Irish have been a bogey side for the Asian giants. The last time Pakistan and Ireland played at the World Cup, the Irish ensured the then No. 4-ranked team went home early from the 2007 tournament.
Pakistan are on a resurgence in this World Cup. They lost to arch-rivals India by 76 runs and then by 150 to the West Indies in their first two matches in this tournament, but has showed marked improvement with wins over Zimbabwe, the United Arab Emirates and South Africa.
As Pakistan approach the knockout stages, Imran has some suggestions for Misbah. Play a leg-spinner.
"If there is a wicket in Australia that helps spinners, it is Adelaide," Imran said. "Previously, Yasir (Shah) was playing against India who are excellent players of spin. Yasir should be playing against Ireland."
"I was the first one to play a leg-spinner -- Abdul Qadir -- in World Cup," Imran remembered.
One of the shrewdest brains during his times, Imran wants Pakistan to play attacking cricket.
"A defensive mindset looks to win games by saving runs, while an attacking mindset looks to win games by taking wickets. Misbah now understands what he needs to do -- which is to have his best four batsmen upfront," Imran said.
Surely, Pakistan don't want to slip up against Ireland on Sunday.