Raja expects a batting track

For the pressmen, who camped out there the whole duration, it turned out to be quite a let-down as Rameez Raja and coach Mushtaq Mohammed could only spend a few minutes due to various reasons.

‘‘Our goals are set. We are out here to win the Cup and friends,’’ said the suave Rameez. ‘‘I know the match against India is a crucial one for both. We’ll play our hearts out,’’ he added.

According to Rameez, who along with Salim Malik from the present squad toured India in 1987, said there was no injury problems in the team.

‘‘The last time I was here it was a good batting wicket. I expect the same now. And the weather should be like the one in Colombo,’’ Rameez said.

‘‘I’ve always felt it is nice playing each other in our respective countries,’’ said Mushtaq.

The Indian team led by Sachin Tendulkar arrived here tonight from Mumbai after losing their match to Sri Lanka yesterday.

Talking to newsmen at the airport, Tendulkar said, ‘‘we know that it is a very important match. It is a do or die situation for us. But we are confident of doing well,’’ he added.

Asked about the fielding, Tendulkar said: ‘‘We fielded well in the first match. We effected four run-outs. If we continue in the same way we can win.’’

Asked about playing Pakistan in India, Tendulkar said we really have good chance and the players are confident.

Asked about the strategy for the all important match, former speedster and coach Madan Lal said it could be decided only after seeing the wicket.

When asked about Pakistan’s bowling, he skirted the question. But said that it would be anybody’s game. ‘‘It’s a one-day game and whoever performs well on that day could win,’’ he added.