Indo-Pak series a tough event: Shoaib Malik

Former Pakistan cricket captain, Shoaib Malik has described Pak-India cricket series "a tough event" in which pressure will be equally on both sides. "I don't think so that any team would be having any edge (India being the hosts) and pressure will be on both sides and I anticipate close competition in the series", he told newsmen here on Friday at Gadaffi stadium.
"This series demands top quality display of qualities from both the sides and we will be seeing a close competition in batting and bowling and the team which plays up to a higher level of performance will win ", he said. When asked to term Pakistan or India favourite, he said it is too difficult to predict the winner as both the teams are good and balanced.
To a question, he said that he is fit and can serve Pakistan team but it all depends on the selectors to pick the best available players." I am playing the domestic cricket and it is the best way to remain in full fitness, form and to underline talent and to get the attention of the selectors", he asserted.
He said Pakistan Cricket Board has taken a wise decision to ask all the top cricketers to feature in the domestic matches. "It is the best way to judge the form and performance", he added. He said appearance in the domestic matches will also help the players to maintain the flow of fitness and form in the series against India. Shoaib Malik said Pak-India series is of greater significance for players from both sides and its top performers will gain the status of stars in their respective countries. "Not only the seniors, juniors will be aiming to demonstrate a special stint of form and talent in their respective departments (batting or bowling)", said the stylish batsman.
To a question he said his wife Sania Mirza can play tennis as long as she is fit and in good form. "She is enjoying playing tennis and I have no objection on it, rather I enjoy when she plays", he said. He rejected a questioner that the pair was facing some problems or have developed differences among them. We both play sports and understand each other commitments and there is no question that our marriage life is at stake.