Wasim targets World Cup

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram said Sunday he was raring to compete in the 2003 World Cup in South Africa.

"I am in good physical condition right now but am working hard to be in top shape by the time the World Cup comes around."

Wasim felt that Pakistan had all the ingredients that make a good team except for fielding which he said needed improvement. "All the players will have to concentrate on this area if we have to win the World Cup."

He said that Pakistan would have an edge in the World Cup because they'll be touring South Africa for a Test series ahead of the tournament. "This will be a big advantage as we'll become quite familiar with the conditions in the leadup to the Cup."

Wasim backed coach Mudassar Nazar who has now been appointed till the World Cup. "Mudassar is a good coach and he has been able to forge unity in the team which is a good sign."

The all-rounder called upon the cricket-playing countries not to be afraid of touring Pakistan in the wake of the war in neighbouring Afghanistan. "There are no security problems here and we have a good cricketing atmosphere. Besides the war is being fought in another country."

He blamed the foreign media of not presenting the real picture of the situation in Pakistan to the outside world. "There are just no problems in our country."

New Zealand had refused to tour Pakistan in September citing security risks, a decision that led to the Pakistan Cricket Board suffering heavy financial losses. However the Pakistan cricket chiefs heaved a sigh of relief last week after the West Indies, following some initial hiccups, said "yes" to a Test series here early next year.