Playing in India against India is something Babar Azam and I discussed in 2010: Imam-ul-Haq

The countdown to the ODI World Cup 2023 has begun, with the tournament less than 100 days away. The marquee event will begin on October 5 with England and New Zealand clashing at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. However, fans will be waiting for the biggest game of the tournament which will be the India vs Pakistan on October 15 in Ahmedabad.

Ahead of the much-anticipated fixture, the war of words from both nations have begun as several former cricketers and current players have made some startling remarks Continuing with the same, star Pakistan batter Imam-ul-Haq has revealed that he and Pakistan captain Babar Azam had dreamed to play in India against them.

“Playing in India, especially against India and doing something special (was something) which Babar and I were discussing before 2010,” Imam said on Pakistan's YouTube channel Grassroots Cricket.

Further talking about Pakistan’s chances at the mega event, Imam said that they have a balanced team which can do wonders.

“I really believe our one-day team is the most compatible and balanced team. The combination is similar to 2019. Whenever you give opportunities to players, performances will come. We have chased 350 here (in Pakistan), we've scored 330 in South Africa, we won the series there. So yes, everybody is excited. A bit nervous as well, I won't lie. This team can do wonders, and it would be good for our nation if we win the World Cup in India,” Imam added.

India have a 7-0 record over Pakistan in ODI World Cup

Notably, India have an upper hand over Pakistan in ODI World Cup as they boast an unbeaten record against the arch-rivals. The two teams first met in the 1992 edition and since then, India have beaten them in all seven encounters during at the mega event. 

Ahead of the 2023 World Cup, the two teams will meet in the Asia Cup which will be co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka this year. Hence, the two teams will be aware of their strengths and weaknesses heading into the big game.