Pakistan to see off fierce rivals

It is a real conundrum as to why the bookmakers have decided to make India favourites for their World Cup Twenty20 match against Pakistan in Durban today.

Aside from the fact that when these two neighbours clash, form and ability go out of the window because of the history between the two teams, the toss makes it even-stevens because it could be hard to bat second.

If ever there was a 5/6 the pair contest then this is it. And considering India are as short as 8/11, Pakistan have to be the bet at even money with Betfred.

Pakistan were not overly impressive in their victory over Scotland but they did at least recover well from the loss of early wickets.

Certainly their bowling looks in much better shape with Umar Gul and Mohammad Asif proving to be a threatening pair.

They need to work on their fielding because their sloppiness will ensure they come unstuck against better sides but they need not worry against India, who are even worse.

India do not appear to be taking this competition very seriously given they have left Rahul Dravid (who has tendered his resignation as captain), Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar at home.

They refused to play a Twenty20 match in their recent tour of England and with minimal experience of the format, and with players who are new to the international scene, they look vulnerable.

Even worse they have appointed Mahendra Singh Dhoni as their captain. Yes, the same player who in a Test match against England that India were trying to save, stepped away and played un ugly hoik to send the ball soaring to the fielder. He got lucky because he was dropped. Next ball he repeated the same shot and was caught. It earned him the nickname Doh!-ni.

Verdict: 2pts Pakistan @ Evs (Betfred)

(Editor's Note: The fierce rivalry could be even more intense as defeat could send India home. Follow all the latst prices on Betfred!)