'Control your nerves, avoid social media' - Umar Gul's advice for Pakistan ahead of T20 WC clash against India

Former Pakistan pacer Umar Gul has backed Pakistan to win the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled between October 17 and November 14 in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Pakistan will kickstart their campaign against arch-rivals India on October 24.

Plenty of former Pakistan cricketers have expressed their reservations regarding the team selected for the mega-event, however, Gul feels that it is the time to back their team ahead of the crucial tournament instead of making statements that will “demoralize” them.

“No doubt that the [T20 World Cup] squad has been criticised a lot since it was announced. I think we should criticise the squad but don’t mention the names of players because our cricket is going through a difficult phase after the cancellation of New Zealand and England’s tours of Pakistan. It’s time to back the players rather than demoralise them,” said Gul in an interaction with Cricket Pakistan.

“Players should also take this criticism positively rather than getting pressurised. I also did the same, when I faced such a situation during the course of my career, and tried to answer my critics through my performance on the field. The ongoing National T20 Cup is also a good chance for the players to regain their confidence,” he added.

India have a very strong team: Umar Gul

Gul also had a word or two for Pakistan for the high-octane contest against India. “There is extra pressure of the India match as the entire nation wants you to beat them. My suggestion is that players should control their nerves and don’t crumble under pressure as it’s a high-voltage match. I would also advise that, two to three days before, especially around the India match, the players should avoid social and conventional media,” he said.

Speaking about India and their chances, Gul said: “Realistically, India have a very strong team. They have worked a lot on their team and have also benefitted greatly from the IPL by unearthing many good players.”

He also highlighted that if Pakistan could get rid of India’s famed top-order quickly, they might be in for a chance. “Obviously, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will hold key for the Indian side but if Pakistan can dismiss their top-order early in the powerplay, they can put their middle-order under pressure.”

“Our team has the potential to qualify for the final four, especially because the matches are being played in UAE as the conditions will suit us [Pakistan],” he said