Date:13/02/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/02/13/stories/2003021306192203.htm

Sport - World Cup

Imran blames Waqar

Pakistan cricket legend Imran Khan blamed Waqar Younis' decision to ask Australia to bat first for the huge defeat Pakistan suffered.

"Once the first 10 overs have been bowled, it's very difficult to stop a good batting team like Australia on a good batting pitch," Imran Khan said on BBC Online.

"Although the Pakistani bowlers did get four Australian wickets quickly, they could not apply the brakes once Andrew Symonds got going.

"It's very difficult for a team batting second to chase a massive total like that. Just look at the first match of the tournament between South Africa and West Indies," said Imran Khan.