No Pakistani conspiracy against Indians

How ironic that India's future in the ICC Champions Trophy should be so inextricably linked to their arch-rivals Pakistan.

They need Pakistan to beat Australia on Wednesday at Centurion, victory over the West Indies at the Wanderers and an improvement in their net run rate to finish ahead of Australia and qualify for the semi-finals.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni isn't buying talk of a grand conspiracy that may see Younus Khan's men throw the game in Centurion.

"He will want to win. Pakistan is a good team and Younus a good captain, so it's dependent on what he wants," Dhoni said of his rival captain.
Younus gave every assurance that Pakistan would do their utmost to achieve the right result.

"There's nothing from us about being relaxed for tomorrow," he said. "When you have good form you've got to carry on with that form. It's simple, you've got to carry that form and play good cricket."

India have mostly carried bad form with them here. Their batting was wobbly in the Pakistan match last Saturday and their bowling has lacked zip.

"Overall, we have not bowled that well," Dhoni admitted. "More than pace, it's the line and length. It's not just about bowling at 140-145km/h-plus.

At the end of the day, you have to bowl the right line and length to the batsmen. "The South African bowlers were among the quickest in the tournament, but they also fetched a lot of runs.
"Pace is not the only criteria; it is more about line and length and the movement you get."

India's starting XI will be determined by what happens in the Centurion match.

"By the time we start our game, we will know where we stand and what we need to do and accordingly we'll decide the playing XI," Dhoni continued.

"If we have a scenario where we can stay alive in the tournament, then a lot about the combination will depend on that, like if we need to up our run rate. We'll decide closer to 1pm."

Pakistan's thoughts are to maintain the winning momentum that has thrust them into the semi-finals after wins against West Indies and India.

"If you look at South Africa, for instance, they were favourites, their management was the best, they're the fittest team and they are playing at home. But in one-dayers and T20s, there are no favourites," said Younus.

"We have a good chance - if we win three more games, we win the Champions Trophy, so we are lucky to be in this position," he added.

"There is nothing in my mind about us losing and thus putting India out. It's all about my country. If we win against Australia it will be very nice for us." Link...