Here we are with our first in the series of chats with former Pakistan International Cricketer Asif Mujtaba. We will be discussing the tournament with, him especially the Pakistan games, throughout the world cup and will be sharing it here.
Although Asif Mujtaba needs no introduction but just in case, you can also have a look at his Cricinfo Profile.
Faraz Ishaq: Another World Cup, how excited you are about this one? Considering your own special performances in Australia, do you think there is something special about Cricket in Australia and New Zealand, especially the mega events like World Cup there?
Asif Mujtaba: It will be a good contest among some of the teams as few teams are carrying good form. Playing in Australia/New Zealand is always challenging for the teams. But the format of the tournament is good. Pool distribution is evenly balanced, top 8 teams are bound to qualify for last 8 stage. At the same time, it will also provide the best opportunities to the associates members to show their skills and talent against good sides. Any victory for them will boost their moral and credibility at the International level and eventually financial advantages which is the most important element both for them and the game. All the associate members playing in this world cup are good enough to cause an upset. Afghanistan and Ireland can upset in their respective groups.
Krick3r: What kind of contests you are foreseeing? Batsmen dominated and high scoring like the last World Cup or more balanced ones like the last WC in Australia? How about the impact of recent changes in the rules – 5-fielders, two new balls (first time since 1992) and all the technology advancements?
AM: 5 fielders inside-the-circle rule provides the entertainment to public. Crowd wants to see more of boundaries and few over the ropes instead of seeing wickets falling cheaply. Limited overs game favours the batsmen rather than the bowlers. Teams also have more ‘better batsmen’ than bowlers but the condition of the pitches will suite the bowlers, especially the fast bowlers. Although, all of us want to see teams chasing down big targets or at least coming close to it, I don’t think we will be seeing too many scores in the vicinity of 300. I can say contest between bat and ball will be balanced and competitive.
Latest Technology will also have its impact, there will be “no adha teeter adha bataair”
K: Out of 10 World Cups, 7 Finals featured at least one Asian team and the last Final was an all Asia Final. But right now Asian sides are seriously struggling both with fitness and form. Do you see any of them making a comeback and get back to their feet during the tournament?
AM: Statistically, NO but Pakistan and India are bound to show their class.
FI: Where do you rate Pakistan? How far do you think they can go in this campaign?
AM: Their first goal should be to get the place in last 8. If they get in there then we can expect them in finals.
FI: Who would be Pakistan’s key players?
AM: Misbah in batting and Yasir Shah in bowling, if he play the matches, then Irfan.
K: You think the announcement of retirement by Afridi and Misbah going to have any positive or negative effect on the team?
AM: It will not have any negative impact. I am expecting that Shahid Afridi will take his retirement back but it all depends upon his own performance.
FI: What about our preparations and team selection?
AM: Preparations were not appropriate, both on and off the field. Selection is always thankless job for selectors. A full bench is involved these days for selection of teams, so they pick what they think is the best.
FI: Where should Afridi bat?
AM: Same place where he is batting now.
FI: Your favourites?
AM: South Africa and Australia if they don’t collide in last 8 or 4 stage. We will see lots of ups and downs, though.
FI: Semi Finalists?
AM: SA. AUS,NZ, PAK/IND
K: Players to watch out?
AM: Steven Smith, Moeen Ali, Shikhar Dhawan, Ross Taylor, Yasir Shah, AB Devilliers, Mahela Jayawardene, Chris Gayle, Hamid Hassan.
K: What would you like to advise the fans about the World Cup and supporting Team Pakistan?
A: Pakistan team needs your support till the end , no matter what would be the result stay with them.
K: What about the big clash – the India-Pakistan battle? Do you think our team is prepared to tackle India?
AM: Pakistan-India match is always crucial for both (players and “awam”). Pakistan is prepared to change the history of World Cup against India.
FI: Do you think that batting first will increase Pakistan’s chances to win?
AM: No, India is very good at chasing runs and Pakistan does not have strong bowling.
K: Game changers?
AM: Umer Akmal and Dhoni
K: Winner?
AM: No Comments 🙂