Video Editor: Ashutosh Bhardwaj
The reigning ICC Champions Trophy winners Pakistan started their Asia Cup campaign with a big win over Hong Kong on Sunday and reignite an old rivalry against India with their second outing on Wednesday night in Dubai.
One player who could be key to Pakistan’s campaign is opener Imam-up-Haq who made an unbeaten half century in the eight-wicket win on Sunday.
While Pakistan beat India the last time the two teams met, in the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy, Imam said he didn't believe it would give his team a psychological edge over the neighbours.
To be honest, I don’t think so. Don’t think there is any psychological effect. Yes, whenever there is a Pakistan v India match, you have to control all the nerves. Everything can go against you as well, can also go in support of you. So the previous records don’t matter at all. This is such a game that all that matters is how you perform on that day.Imam-ul-Haq
Imam ul Haq is the nephew of Pakistan's former captain and prolific batsman Inzamam ul Haq and the pressure to emulate his high profile uncle is showing on the youngster.
Imam, however, silenced few of his critics when he slammed four centuries in his first few ODI matches.
To be honest, I just want to be Imam-ul-Haq, let me clear that. Yes, he is my uncle, it is not my fault. Yes, he has had a lot of great performances (for Pakistan) and yes, there is pressure. I won’t lie. He belongs to my family but it doesn’t matter to me (the pressure to emulate his uncle) because the people around me support me so much.Imam-ul-Haq
The stylish left hander is hoping to leave a mark of his own after Asia Cup and the bilateral series against Australia.
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