'Pakistan are itching to play against New Zealand' - Shoaib Akhtar

After a comprehensive win over India, Pakistan now set their sight on New Zealand. Ahead of the 20-20 World Cup, New Zealand had put Pakistan to shame after pulling out of the series citing security issues. Since then, several Pakistan experts have urged the team to take revenge in the 20-20 World Cup game against New Zealand. The teams are set to cross swords on October 26.

Ahead of the match, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar said that Pakistan are itching to play against New Zealand. "India is always a big game and the win was great but we as a nation are unhappy with New Zealand. It is a big game for us. We are itching to play against them and we have to win the match against them," Akhtar added.

Talking about Pakistan’s win over India, Akhtar said the win was important to induce self-belief in the team, adding that if Pakistan can go on to win the 20-20 world cup, it will inspire the coming generations. "We were demoralized. We haven't played cricket on home soil for 15 years and when New Zealand was finally going to come but their bailing out didn't help our cause either. So when India against Pakistan came along, this win was important for the country of Pakistan. The win is so important for us because it helps us unite Pakistan cricket. If we win the World Cup, we have a chance of inspiring a generation. We don't want to rub the loss into India's face. It is bigger than that for us."

Post the win, the Rawalpindi Express trolled Harbhajan Singh, who earlier had said that Pakistan should give India a walkover in the 20-20 World Cup match. However, Akhtar clarified it was all in good spirits as Harbhajan is a very good friend of him.

'There has never been a spat between Bhajji and me. We indulge in banter and we have our friendship and that's okay. Indian greats shouldn't say things like "I don't know this Pakistan players name". It doesn't reflect well. Now they know the names of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. We shouldn't do all this.'