We are ready to face India: Sarfraz

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan are ready to face India at any international stage and the ICC World Cup 2019 match will be no exception, said skipper Sarfraz Ahmad, who travelled to Islamabad from Dubai with the World Cup trophy on Thursday.

Speaking to media at a local hotel where the trophy was showcased, Sarfraz said Pakistan had never turned their back when it came to facing India on the cricket field. “We are always ready to play India, be it in a bilateral series or World Cup. But it is them who think otherwise. I cannot talk any more on the issue as it can trigger a new debate.”

Pakistan will take on India in their World Cup match on June 16 at Old Trafford. To a question about Pakistan’s fragile middle-order, Sarfraz said he was satisfied with the batting line up.

“Babar Azam is leading our middle-order backed by Haris Sohail, Hafeez and Shoaib Malik. I will also be there for assistance,” he said. Sarfraz added that all the teams featuring in the World Cup are capable and must be taken seriously.

“All teams are solid and capable of beating anyone,” he said. Sarfraz was confident of Pakistan’s chances at the World Cup. “Hopefully, we will go on to win the World Cup,” he said.

He also confirmed that they will carry two to three extra players for the tournament. “Apart from the 15-member squad, we will be carrying a few extra players for the series against England. This will help the players get acclimatise.”

The wicketkeeper batsman also said that he was preparing for the fitness tests. “Clearing fitness tests is very important for the players. Whether it is Mohammad Amir or anyone else. Only the players who pass the fitness tests will be in the team,” he added.