Disappointed Imam braces himself for encounter with India

Pakistan opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq expressed disappointment over his inability to take his side to victory against Australia, after the Men in Green lost the crucial World Cup encounter by 41 runs on Wednesday.

“When Babar got out [for 30], it was then my responsibility and I was going well but it was not a good ball that got me out, the same as I did against the West Indies,” said Imam quoted PCB.

“I knew I’d spent a hell of a lot of time on a tricky wicket so I knew it wouldn't be easy for any new batsman to come in. So it was a huge disappointment because it’s a World Cup stage and if you get set, you really have to make it count if you want to stay in the tournament.

“If I’ve scored 30 in a winning side, that would be great, I’d be very happy. As a pro, if you’re winning matches for your country, that’s the best thing and if you’re not even if you score a fifty, that’s a huge disappointment,” he added. Imam scored 53 off 75 deliveries, before getting caught behind by Alex Carey off Pat Cummins delivery.

With two losses in four matches, Pakistan would next meet arch rivals India in a must-win match at Old Trafford on Sunday. Imam admitted that the most anticipated World Cup match would be a ‘pressure game’ but the team is just focusing on their ‘cricket strengths.’

“Yes, we’ve had one game rained off which was very important for us - every game now is very important for us, so yes you can say that,” he said.