KARACHI, Jan 21: Former Pakistan captain Imran Khan on Tuesday said the team which was best equipped to handle pressure would win the forthcoming World Cup in southern Africa.

Imran, who captained Pakistan to their only Cup win in 1992, said Australia had made a mistake by dropping their Test captain Steve Waugh from the World Cup squad as he was a proven performer under pressure.

“For me it was a big mistake to drop Steve. Australia might win the cup but World Cup is all about taking pressure and Steve was good at it,” Imran said about the man who led the Aussies to victory at the last World Cup four years ago in England.

Imran, 50, said Australia were favourites to retain the trophy under new skipper Ricky Ponting.

“For me Australia is top favourite, South Africa will be tough on home conditions, while England has come back well in Australia and New Zealand has fighting capability and have made a good combination.”

Imran said Pakistan appeared to lack self-belief and the ability to scrap their way out of trouble.

“There was a lack of fighting spirit in Pakistan’s series in South Africa last month but I hope that with one win they can regroup and there would be no lack of motivation in the World Cup,” he said.

Imran said the form of all-rounder Wasim Akram, opener Saeed Anwar and speedster Shoaib Akhtar were vital for Pakistan to have any hope of success.

“They have the firepower and should adopt an attacking mind set,” said Imran who has carved out a new career as a politician since his retirement.

He also suggested that star batsman Inzamam-ul-Haq should bat at number three to strengthen the early batting order.—AFP