“There is no question of divided loyalty. I want to go with India which has a 5-0 record against Pakistan in the World Cup. I just hope it will extend that record,” remarked Sania Mirza, the goodwill ambassador for sports in India.

In an exclusive interview ahead of the India-Pakistan World Cup clash on February 15, a visibly relaxed Sania, who is optimistic of squeezing in time to watch the game live from Dubai, where she will be taking part in the Dubai Open, told The Hindu that unlike most cricket fans, she doesn’t feel the pressure.

“I think any India-Pakistan sporting contest has that emotional tinge attached to it. It charges up everyone. It is actually the excitement and expectations which are really high. I think the sporting battles between India and Pakistan have been one of the best, both on and off the field,” she felt.

“Shoaib (Malik, her husband and former Pakistan cricket captain) will be in India doing the expert commentary on the World Cup for two TV channels. So, I will be watching the game alone in Dubai,” she said.

“Like any genuine cricket fan, I am looking forward to a terrific game of cricket. For, winning and losing is part of any sporting battle. But, my bet is on India to win,” Sania remarked.

For someone who is a huge follower of Indian cricket, Sania rates captain M.S. Dhoni as her favourite. “He is a remarkable cricketer and a great leader. India has atleast seven match-winners, and one of them is Dhoni. Despite a disappointing tour to Australia preceding the World Cup, I still believe that if at least one or two click on a given day, that should be enough to see India through,” felt Sania.

Were you surprised by Dhoni’s decision to quit Test cricket? “Not really. He is a very intelligent and mature cricketer who knows what is best for him. I personally feel that retirements are best left to the athletes, for they know better than anyone else when to call it a day.

“We should respect such decisions even while remembering the yeoman service they have rendered to the sport, and to the country,” Sania signed off.
(The Hindu)