CHANDIGARH - As it is in any sport, when India and Pakistan face-off in the finals of the Kabaddi World Cup sparks are certain to fly. Before, the Pakistani cricket team comes to India to play a three-match ODI series and two T20 internationals; the arch-rivals will renew their rivalry on the Kabaddi pitch in Ludhiana.
Both teams are high on confidence having enjoyed an unbeaten run in the tournament and have brushed aside most of their rivals with consummate ease. Pakistan outplayed Canada in the first semifinal 53-27, while India defeated Iran 72-23 in the second.
The final will provide India an opportunity to gain sweet revenge against Pakistan who had beaten them in the recently conducted Asian Kabaddi Championship in Pakistan. On the other hand, Pakistan is aspiring to win the crown for the first time on the Indian soil.
With India and Pakistan meeting in the final, fireworks are expected as both countries are feeling confident and have prepared their teams well for the summit clash. Indian captain Sukhbir Singh Sarawan said, "We are confident of winning the trophy. We have prepared well for the World Cup."
Replying to a question that India and Pakistan are traditional opponents, Sukhbir Sarawan said, "We are well prepared and have trained well to counter any team. I am sure that we will win the trophy we have won in the second edition"
Meanwhile, a well-balanced Pakistani team, led by Musharaf Javed, gained their revenge by ending the challenge of Canada. It may be recalled that Canada had beaten Pakistan in the semis in the second edition of the World Cup. Commenting after the one-sided semi-final encounter, Pakistan captain and stopper Javed said, "We have come to India well prepared. We have a good attacking and strong defence (stoppers) line. We have learnt from the past mistakes and we are confident that we will not repeat them. During the coaching camp in Islamabad, we had work on our shortcomings. We now have a balanced and strong team."
Regarding their strategy for the final, Javed said, "We will decide it during the final match as India is a difficult opponent. I ask my countrymen to pray and wish us look luck so that we may bring the coveted trophy to Pakistan."
The match is going to bring out the best of the players from both countries as not only their own reputation is at stake but also the nation's pride and honour will come to the fore during the game.