Sports Cricket World Cup Semi-final" Afridi says pressure will be more on India than Pakistan

Mohali, March 29, 2011 (PPI): Captain Shahid Afridi Tuesday said that pressure will be more on India compared to his team during the high voltage cricket World Cup semi-final on Wednesday in Mohali.

"We are not the most favourite team for this competition. India is the most favourite and we have played above expectations. We are enjoying our cricket," Afridi said at pre-match conference here. "If you know how to handle it, there is no need to panic. I think we will enjoy playing here," he said when asked if the match was being seen more as a battle of nerves.

Admitting that it is always a big challenge to play against India in their home turf, he said his team was up for the task at hand. "This game is very important for both the sides. We have prepared well for this game and we are confident," he added.

Apart from a place in April 2 World Cup final at stake, tomorrow's match will also witness cricket diplomacy with Pakistan Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani and his India counterpart Manmohan Singh watching the match.

Afridi said the sport has and will always build the bridge between the two nations, who have not played a bilateral series since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. "I think it's a great sign for both countries and sports, especially cricket always brings these two countries together."

He said he was honoured to represent and lead Pakistan in the match. "I am a cricketer first, then a diplomat and ambassador or whatever you may call." Afridi also held the media responsible for strained ties between two neighbouring countries. "Media ki vajeh say India, Pakistan kay relations itney kharab huvein hein (it is because of media that relations between the two sides have strained)."