Imran says India would look to bat first on Thursday

ISLAMABAD: Cricketer turned-politician Imran Khan on Wednesday said India would hope to bat first in the second semifinal of the world cup against Australia tomorrow (Thursday).

In a tweet, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan said the pitch of Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) would help the spinners, therefore, India could be in a position to put pressure on Aussies by setting 250+ runs on the score board.

He said for the first time the four best teams of the world had made it to the semi finals and termed the New Zealand’s win in the second knockout phase against South Africa as the battle of nerves.

The world cup winning former captain has also described the Kiwis as favourites for lifting the world cup.

This is the first WC where the 4 best teams have reached semis.NZs run to win v SA was one of the best run chases under pressure. 1/4

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 25, 2015

2/4 NZ won the battle of nerves against SA. They are my favourites to win the final as they ooze self belief.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 25, 2015

3/4 Tomorrow's semis: The SCG is the pitch where India has its best chance to beat Australia as it helps spinners.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 25, 2015

4/4 India would hope to bat first, post a 250+ total & then apply pressure esp through their spinners. Should be a great semi final tomorrow

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 25, 2015