Terming Pakistan favourites for T20 World Cup, Williamson hopeful of game to be played in good spirit

When Pakistan beat India for the first time in World Cup history on Sunday, 24 October night, their entire nation was thrilled. Their next target, which they have been claiming ever since the tour was abandoned midway by the New Zealand team in September, are the Kiwis in this T20 World Cup 2021. Now they finally face Blackcaps in the encounter on Tuesday evening in Sharjah. 

On New Zealand and their skipper Kane Williamson’s mind there is no such thing as Pakistan seeking revenge for something. He is hopeful that the game will be played in the right spirit. 

"There are a lot of good relations within the two teams. Over the years they've played a lot against each other, and a number of players have played with each other, as well. I am sure the game will be played in the right spirit," said Willaimson in the pre-match press conference. 

"I suppose the focus now is here at the T20 World Cup, and no doubt after the performance last night, Pakistan have some momentum and are feeling pretty good about their cricket," the Kiwi captain added. 

New Zealand, who lost both their World Cup warm-up games coming into the Super 12 would be under immense pressure in the spinning conditions of Sharjah where Afghan spinners bundled out Scotland for only 60 runs in the last game. 

The 31-year-old Kiwi skipper agreed to the pressure saying that Pakistan are favourites to win the World Cup, especially after their last game and given their experience of playing in UAE over the years. 

"It was a fantastic performance. I think Pakistan have come to the T20 World Cup full of confidence, having played in these conditions more than most. They certainly put on a show last night and showed why they're one of the favourites in the competition,” he said.