Hafeez backs Pak not to get 'swayed by emotion' during 'high-pressure' World T20 clash with India

Pakistani Twenty20 captain Mohammad Hafeez has insisted that his team would not get 'swayed by emotion' ahead of their clash with archrivals India in the World Twenty20 at Mirpur's Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.

Hafeez believes that Pakistan cannot afford to get distracted by their rivalry against India if they are to replicate their 2009 triumph from a group also containing defending champions West Indies and tournament favourite Australia.

According to The Dawn, far from being daunted by the prospect of facing India in their World Twenty20 opener on Friday, Hafeez is happy that his team will kick off their campaign in Bangladesh against India as he believes that if they managed to perform well in such a high-pressure match, subsequent matches would seem easier for them.

However, Hafeez dismissed notions that Pakistan is underestimating their other opponents in the tournament, saying that they have made certain plans for Australia and West Indies also as both are good sides, adding that his team's group has all the favourites for the tournament.

Hafeez further said that the fact is a good challenge for Pakistan as it will keep them from taking things easy in the event.