Lifetime opportunity for team, says Moin (18 June 1999)

18 June 1999

Lifetime opportunity for team, says Moin

The Dawn

KARACHI, June 17: Pakistan team was in high spirits and anxiously waiting for the June 20 World Cup final, vice captain Moin Khan said from Manchester late Wednesday evening.

"We are not bothered who will be against us. Our sights are only on the coveted trophy and we are determined to win it," he said in a telephonic interview immediately after Pakistan defeated New Zealand in the semi-final.

Moin, whose batting brilliance has earned worldwide praise, said the players were excited to play at Lord's. "Some may say Lord's would bring the players under pressure but I can assure that the venue would only increase their output.

"It's a lifetime opportunity for all of us to win for the country for which everyone has prayed back home. We are not ready to blow this chance because we it might be our last chance," he said.

Moin is the first Pakistan wicket-keeper to complete 2,000 runs (he has 2,130 runs) in one-day cricket besides accounting for 173 batsmen behind in the stumps in 138 matches.

Asked why Wasim Akram looked casual in the first session of the semi-final, he said: "Wasim wasn't casual but he was struggling to get into his grooves. The gap of five days made him a little rusty."

About his own form, he said: "It's a great feeling to contribute to team's success."

Source :: The Dawn (www.dawn.com)