Confident Pak hit the road

Amidst security concerns over the hockey World Cup the Indian team have remained out of reach,while the National Stadium has been cordoned off....

Amidst security concerns over the hockey World Cup the Indian team have remained out of reach,while the National Stadium has been cordoned off Pakistan are intent on proving that their focus remains only on the game. Pakistan will arrive by road from Lahore on Monday,crossing the Wagah border,a move that the players themselves are not too happy about but insist will not affect their performance. Yes,it is a concern but we are not thinking about it. I am sure that the Indian government will provide us adequate security, Pakistan goalkeeper Salman Akbar told The Indian Express from Lahore.

Star striker Rehan Butt said the decision was forced due to the unavailability of flights. We had a flight from Lahore on February 25 with the return on March 17 or 18,which would have disturbed our entire schedule. And we definitely dont have the money to charter a flight. I am not thinking of security. I know it will be a tiring journey but we are arriving well in advance, he said.

Talking about the World Cup,Butt said the team were looking forward to their opening match against India. It will be a big match,so there is bound to be pressure. But it is also an opportunity for us to get off on a spirited note. I am expecting as many people for it as for the final. Playing India at home is always difficult but we are looking at three points, he said.

Pakistan coach Shahid Ali Khan said the equation was balanced. India have the home advantage and the crowd support. But we have won our past few encounters,including in the Asia Cup and the Champions Challenge,so the record is on our side. That said,we are aware that the past means nothing,especially in an India-Pakistan game,so we will try to do well. The team who are able to handle the pressure of the moment better will win, he said.

Akbar said while an India-Pakistan game always raised passion,that was more of a political thing. We are good friends with the Indian players. For me,it will be more about starting off on a winning note. The first game of a major tournament is always the barometer for future matches. So,I am actually glad that we begin against India,which will help us be charged up from the very beginning, he said.

Everyone,though,is placing their money on last editions finalists Australia and Germany for the title. Australia,without doubt, said Shahid. There is a reason why Australia and Germany are successful,and for me they are the favourites. Pakistan will be the dark horses,though, said Akbar.