Anwar plots Aussie fall

Recalled Pakistan opener Saeed Anwar said Tuesday reigning champions Australia were not "invincible" and that Pakistan could win their opening World Cup clash in southern Africa.

"Australians are not as invincible as many people think. We beat them in Australia in June this year and by the grace of Almighty Allah will beat them in our opening game," Anwar, 34, told AFP.

Anwar, who has become a devout Muslim and sports a long beard, was picked in Pakistan's 15-man squad which will start the eighth World Cup with a mouth-watering clash against defending champions Australia in Johannesburg on February 11.

"They (Australia) play an attacking game and the best way to counter them is to attack them and I am planning special things for Aussie bowlers."

Anwar, sidelined because of a lack of form and fitness since September this year, forced his way back into the side following batting failures at the top of the Pakistani order over the past four months.

"I believe that bad times are for good times and Pakistan won the 1992 World Cup in Australia in similar circumstances," said Anwar, who has played 242 one-day games for Pakistan.

"I have the experience of playing two World Cups so I hope it will come in handy in South Africa," the opener said.

Anwar holds the world record highest one-day innings of 194 made against India in Madras in 1997.

The left-handed opener brushed aside reports Pakistan were a disjointed unit because of bickering among the players.

"One win will put everything behind and I am sure that will come against Australia."

"Pakistan was among the favourites in 1996 and then again in 1999 but we failed to win the title, this time around we have more experience."