'It’s going to be pretty tough' - Martin Guptill on New Zealand's T20 WC clash against Pakistan

New Zealand opener Martin Guptill has said that New Zealand are expecting a tough fight from Pakistan in the T20 World Cup. The two teams are set to cross swords on October 26 in a group B clash. Ever since New Zealand abandoned their Pakistan tour citing security issues, the Pakistan fans and players are looking at this match in a different way. Guptill added that Pakistan are a formidable team in the UAE conditions and New Zealand have to be on their toes to emerge victorious against the Men in Green.

“They’re a tough opponent and in these conditions, it’s going to be pretty tough again. We’re going to have to be on our A-game and bring it to them and not take a backward step, just like every other game that we play,” said Martin Guptill as quoted by Stuff.

Guptill also spoke about New Zealand's abandonment of the Pakistan tour and said that everyone in the New Zealand team were looking forward to the series but the situation was out of players’ hands. He said he understands the disappointment of the Pakistan players and fans who were keenly waiting to get some cricketing action back home. He wished that cricket returns to Pakistan soon.

“It was disappointing for everybody involved. We were all really looking forward to playing some cricket and getting a bit of game time before the World Cup and that wasn’t to be. I know Pakistan were really looking forward to having some cricket back in their home country, and we’re all hoping that there is going to be cricket there again soon,” added Guptill.

Ahead of the New Zealand game, Pakistan will play India in their T20 World Cup opener in Dubai on October 24.