Not easy to spot winners in India-Pakistan series

Never make the mistake of predicting a winner in an India-Pakistan contest, cricket experts have warned ahead of high-profile series between the arch-rivals.

Never make the mistake of predicting a winner in an India-Pakistan contest, cricket experts have warned ahead of the high-profile series between the arch-rivals.

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Opinions are already divided, with some claiming India will complete a 3-0 whitewash on the strength of their spin on low, slow home pitches.

Others disagree, saying a young Pakistani side have the wherewithal to surprise the hosts in the three-Test series and the six One-Day Internationals to follow.

"Never predict winners in an India-Pakistan series," says former Pakistan captain Imran Khan, who led his team to victory in the 1992 World Cup in Australia and also vanquished India on their own soil in 1987.

"I think the ability to cope with pressure will decide the issue in this series. We had a weak team in 1987, but still won in India because we handled pressure better than our rivals," said Imran.

"Pakistan need to show team spirit and fighting qualities on the tour, especially after losing key paceman Shoaib Akhtar due to a hamstring injury.

"On paper, Pakistan appear weaker than India but it could turn out to be a blessing in disguise."

Imran believes pace will be Pakistan's best bet against a strong Indian batting line-up.