Proud to have played a part in our 100 per cent record against Pakistan: Sachin Tendulkar

For the first time, you will be missing from an Indo-Pak match at the World Cup. What are your thoughts on it?
It is certainly a different feeling. It is one of those big games you would love to be a part of. And now, I am looking forward to the experience of watching it. I am proud to have played a part in our 100 per cent record against Pakistan in World Cups. It is something I will always cherish.

In your absence, do you think that the 100 per cent record against Pakistan in the World Cup is under threat?
I wouldn't say that. The present Indian team is good and they will be eager to begin the World Cup campaign positively and that too, against Pakistan. Hopefully, they will maintain the 100 per cent record.

You have played against the likes of Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Shoaib Akhtar and even Imran Khan. Do you think this is a weakened Pakistan team?
I don't think this is a weakened Pakistan team. I agree, it may not have the kind of attack that boasted of names like Akram, Waqar and Akhtar but it would be wrong to write this team off. This is a big match for them too and they will be eager to do well.

Who do you think Indians should watch out for?
It will be a highly charged up Pakistan team and everybody will be eager to earn a win. As far as Indians are concerned, they should watch out for the tall fast bowler Mohammad Irfan.

Playing Pakistan first up in the World Cup, is it good or bad? Do you think it is more pressure to begin with?
It is good and I think it is exciting as well. It is a big tournament and India-Pakistan match is something that excites everyone. And, it will always be a big match whether first or last. People look forward to this match, just like the Australia vs England match.

What do you think will be going through the minds of Indian cricketers as they get ready to play Pakistan. Most of them are youngsters and many haven't played in a World Cup?
They have played a little bit and there are a few players who have played in the last World Cup. So that will help and then obviously, there are always going to be youngsters and there is always going to be a first time. So, it's fine. They will learn with experience and from seniors.

You think players will not be so bothered about the huge expectations surrounding this match?
Players will be (bothered). Of course, players will be because you get to hear about it from so many guys. Sometimes from friends, from room service, sometimes when you go out to restaurants all those guys will be talking. And so many people will travel from India and sometimes players will bump into these people and so, there will always be a talk about this match.

So, it is not possible for players to completely switch off even if they avoid watching TV or reading newspapers?
No. You cannot switch off completely. Absolutely not.

What sort of pressure will the Indian team face ahead of the big match?
I know the Indian players will be thinking about it and would have planned (their strategy). They may not be doing anything differently. They won't be doing anything differently. But I think they will know at the back of their minds that it is the first game of the tournament and that too against Pakistan and it becomes even more important.

Do you think India can pull it off and make it 6-0?
Oh, yes. Like I said, it is a good team and it's advantage India.

Your thoughts on Sunday's venue — Adelaide?
The wicket will be flat and there should be lot of runs. We have seen in the last few months the way the wicket there behaves.

You been part of all the WC wins over Pakistan. What do you think is the reason India has dominated Pakistan so much?
I believe in most of the wins, we have outbatted Pakistan. We have chased down a big target they set. Our bowling too has won us matches. We have been able to defend the totals. I think it has to be because our all-round performance has been better than theirs.

How much is it a battle of nerves?
Yes, it is also a battle of nerves. Especially so, given the expectations. Whoever is able to keep their cool till the end is most likely to win the match.

Indo-Pak WC matches have always been promoted as Sachin vs Shoaib or Sachin vs Wasim etc. How did you go about preparing for these high octane matches?
I prepared for these matches the same way as I would for any other match. It didn't matter how the match was promoted, I did not do anything differently. The approach was always to give the best, no matter what the opposition. I was aware of the expectations connected with these matches but there would be nothing different with the way I prepared.

Your knock against Pakistan in Centurion 2003 is considered one of the best ODI innings. Could you tell us what was going through your mind? How did you go about it?
It was an unbelievable match. The atmosphere, the setting, the conditions all contributed fantastically. Pakistan had set us a target of 274 and during the lunch time, I just put on my ear phones and kept to myself focussing on the job to do.

What would be your favourite WC match against Pakistan?
For me, it is without any doubt Centurion (2003). That particular game, the atmosphere was terrific and I cannot forget that match. It's been one of the top games that I have participated in.

Even bigger than 2011 semifinal?
Yeah. Yeah. Pressure wise, the semifinal at Mohali was bigger. But you know, the occasion and the satisfaction and overall feel. You know there are certain games which leave amazing memories and Centurion was one of such matches.

What do you feel are India's chances in the World Cup following a bad Test series and a disastrous tri-series?
I think the Indian team will be in the top four and then it is about how you deal with the opposition on that particular day. Basically, when you make it to last four, you just need two good days to be called the world champions.