Akhtar must play against India: Imran

Even as Shoaib Akhtar cools his heels,unsure of playing any further role for Pakistan in the World Cup,he received support from former World cup winning captain,Imran Khan. Terming him an impact player,Imran argued that Shoaib must play in the semi-final against India in Mohali. If Shoaib is fit,he should play. The Indian team always plays spin very well. So,you should bank on the pacers (for breakthroughs), he said.

Imran also believes that there are no clear favourites going into the much awaited encounter in Mohali. Speaking at a promotional event in Kolkata,Khan predicted: It will be a very even match. In a match of such high pressure,things tend to even out.

Weighing up the two teams,Khan said that while India have momentum in their favor,Pakistan had the edge in bowling and in what he termed the killer instinct. He said it would be the side that managed the pressure better,who would emerge victorious.