At a press conference on Saturday, 24 February, Inzamam-ul-Haq said Australia were still favourites ti win the World Cup in West Indies despite a recent slump in form.

Australia have lost five one-day matches and then suffered a further setback Friday when Brett Lee was ruled out with an ankle injury.

"Australia may have lost a few matches but for me they still are the World Cup favourites," Inzamam told reporters after a training camp

"Australia have been winning for the last 10 years or so and they are a very consistent side but their recent defeats have given more chances to other teams," said Inzamam.

On a question about fitness problems he said, "It would have been better to have a full squad confirmed rather than having fitness worries because it doesn't allow you to plan.

"But I am not thinking negatively. Akhtar and Asif are our main players and I hope they not only overcome their injuries but reports of their tests also come in our favour," said Inzamam.

(Article: compiled by the PCB. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the individuals only.
Copyright © 2007 the individual writers.)