KARACHI: Former captain and veteran cricketer Imran Khan, crowned with the honour of bringing home the country’s only world cup till date, came forward to support the cricket team after it lost out to arch rivals India during the first outing in World Cup 2015.

The home side kept alive its tradition of choking in front of India during the world championships, making this defeat sixth in a row since 1992.

The high-voltage match was unable to bring the best out of Pakistani players as they suffered a massive 76-run defeat while chasing a target of 300 runs — thanks in large part to clumsy performance in the field.

With the team a target of heavy criticism back home, Imran Khan issued a statement to boost morale and comfort the public in general.

“Pakistanis shouldn't get depressed over today's loss to India. If performance is accurately analysed, the defeat can be blessing in disguise,” he said on the micro-blogging website Twitter.

Imran’s comments on the team’s performance were very positive and he expressed confidence that the team could still perform well at the tournament. He said there was some good talent on display today but urged for the need of a better strategy.

Expressing his confidence in the otherwise deeply criticised bowling attack of Pakistan, the former skipper said that Irfan, Wahab, Yasir and Sohail can defend if the batsmen give a decent target.

Imran also stressed on the importance of having Younus Khan in the side, saying “Younus is a must for future matches.”