'Pakistan can't win if they don't force India to make errors' : Rashid Latif

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels the team must have to be on their toes to beat the Virat Kohli-led team India. The high-octane clash will take place on Sunday (October 24) at the Dubai International Stadium. India have managed to boss this epic rivalry by beating their opponent five teams. Since the inaugural edition in 2007, Pakistan have managed to get close but have faltered at the end.

Latif feels it would be hard for Pakistan to outclass India if the Men in Blue does not make any errors. The cricketer-turned-expert also spoke about the importance of tactics in the crucial encounter. “In my opinion, no matter how well Pakistan plays, if Indian players don't make mistakes, then it will be difficult for Pakistan to win the match,” Latif told Khaleej Times.

“When I captained Pakistan, I always tried to induce errors from the opposition. Of course, you have to do your own job first, but at the same time, it’s important to make the other team commit mistakes. So, it's not just about the technique or skills, it’s about tactics. You have to get your tactics right and try to make the other team commit errors.”

India are coming off from good performances in the warm-up matches as they managed to beat Australia and England by convincing margins. The team tried different combinations and everything paid off. The form and fitness of all-rounder Hardik Pandya is a concern though but skipper Virat Kohli said he is getting better and would soon return to bowling.

Meanwhile, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam said the team has experience of playing in the UAE conditions and they would like to take advantage of it.