Pakistan can beat England: minister

Published September 6, 2005

ISLAMABAD, Sept 5: Federal Sports Minister, Muhammad Ajmal Khan, said on Monday the newly-adopted sports strategy would be fully implemented. The sports strategy is the milestone in the promotion of games and will be implemented in letter and spirit,” the minister said in comments on prevailing sports scene, also throwing his weight behind Inzamamul Haq for inclusion in World XI and sounding confident of Pakistan’s chances at home against England later this year.

“Through sport strategy, we want to extend sports activities to the far-flung areas like Fata and Northern Areas,” Ajmal said.

“Although England team is very strong and in prime form, yet Pakistan is capable of defeating them in the upcoming home series,” he said.

“Keeping in mind the present performance of the England against Australia, it will be a very tough contest for Pakistan. The players mentally, physically and technically must be sound and strong to overcome England,” he added.

About Inzamam, he said the Pakistan skipper should have been in the World XI on merit.

“Inzamam is a star batsman and we are all concerned about his exclusion.

“We have protested from the platform of Senate Standing Committee on Culture and Sports.

“Being Sports Minister, I am as disappointed as other Pakistanis are regarding Inzamam’s omission,” he said.

The minister hailed the distribution of cash awards and medals to the players.

“The present government is very keen in the promotion of all sports and this distribution of cash is very positive step in this behalf.”—APP