India-Pak intensity will never subside: Laxman

New Delhi: His fondest memories have been against Australia, but VVS Laxman avers that taking on Pakistan has a charm of its own.

The Hyderabad batsman, who many feel has not justified his flair, may have dumped hopes of playing One Day Internationals long ago but is looking to follow the fortunes of his team in the Asia Cup.

"I don’t think the intensity of matches between India and Pakistan will ever subside because the expectations of fans in both countries will never die down," Laxman told Cricketnext on the eve of a league clash between the two teams in the six-nation tournament also featuring Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates.

"Be it Tests, ODIs or T20s, the passion remains the same for players as well as the public. Any series between the two sides is a much awaited one and I had a great experience touring Pakistan in 2004 and 2005," said Laxman, who has played just 10 ODIs against Pakistan.

"A tour of Pakistan is always thrilling and just visiting the place and getting to know the people over there gives you a great feeling. I have always enjoyed moving around there and I can never forget my visit to the Wagah border,” added Laxman, who has done well against Pakistan in Tests but has not tasted much success in ODIs, having scored just 234 runs against them.

Laxman, who was the most feared batsman by the mighty Aussies even before he produced that epic 281 at the Eden Gardens against Steve Waugh’s men in 2001, has no doubt about who has been the best Pakistani bowler faced by him.

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