Pakistan opener Azhar Ali has backed India to win the five-match Test series against England starting later this month.
In an interview with PakPassion.net, the 33-year-old stated that the weather conditions prevailing in England currently could work in favour of Virat Kohli’s men.
Azhar said: “The prevailing warm weather conditions in England at the moment seem to favour an India victory in the Test series in my view. They are, after all, ranked as the number one Test side in the world and the only thing England have in their favour is the fact that they are playing on their home grounds.
“They may have a good bowling attack for home conditions but in good batting conditions, the Indian batsmen will prosper and can easily put their team in a winning position when the series starts.”
The Pakistan Test specialist also had some praise for India skipper Kohli’s determination to be the very best.
Kohli and his men will take on England in a five-match series.
“I believe the most important ingredient of Virat Kohli’s success is his determination to succeed. His composure in any situation is simply amazing. The level of professionalism that he shows in the game is comfortably the best in the game. His attention to fitness is exemplary and how he has steadily improved game year on year is just incredible,” he added.
On his own personal front, the right-hander is targeting a return to Pakistan’s ODI setup after being left out from the squad which is touring Zimbabwe currently. A part of Pakistan’s Champions Trophy in England last year, Azhar is hoping to make a comeback into the side in time for next year’s World Cup at the same venue.
“That is absolutely my target to find a place in the Pakistan squad for the 2019 World Cup,” said Azhar. “I understand that I need to work hard to get into the team but that remains my aim and it will be an honour to represent Pakistan at such a big stage if given the opportunity.”