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| February 11, 2007 | Sunday | Muharram 22, 1428 |
Gibbs predicts thrilling climax to ODI series against Pakistan
CAPE TOWN, Feb 10: South African opener Herschell Gibbs on Saturday predicted a thrilling climax to the on-going One-day International series against Pakistan after the tourists’ fine comeback in the contest which now stands 1-1 after three games.
“There are some exciting times ahead for the two teams and the fans,” said Gibbs in an interview to a local daily. “It was a shame the Port Elizabeth match on Friday was rained off but at least it ensures this series will go right down to the wire.”
“Pakistan made a fine comeback at Durban after we had thrashed them at Centurion. Our bowling let us down in that match but credit to them, they won the match in style and squared the series,” he said.
Referring to his three-match ban from ICC following a racial slur which was allegedly aimed at the Asian fans in the first ODI at Centurion, Gibbs said it was like a bad nightmare which he was keen to put behind him now.
“It was obviously disappointing but I was pleased by the support I had from everyone. The whole story hasn’t come out yet but, to be honest, I don’t really want to be dredging it all up any more and I would rather just focus on my cricket.
“I’ve served my time and now I want to get back to my best form and help the team to fulfil our potential. It was magnificent to get back to cricket against Pakistan in Durban,” Gibbs said while referring to his ban. “I had a rough couple of weeks but it’s all behind me now and I’m feeling good.”
The prolific opening batsman said South African outfit was pretty much on song for the forthcoming World Cup and most players were looking forward to the mega event in the Caribbeans. “Although our focus is still on beating Pakistan, the World Cup is at the back of everybody’s minds now.
“But I would emphasize that we are all determined to win the next two games and make sure our preparations are spot on before we go to the World Cup. I feel the team is really starting to click now at the right time, just a few weeks before the biggest tournament arrives,” said Gibbs. —Agencies
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