Dravid delighted by Sehwag recovery

PORT OF SPAIN: India captain Rahul Dravid breathed a sigh of relief that under-fire batsman Virender Sehwag made a timely return to form with a century against Bermuda.   

Sehwag, who was dropped down the order to number three, had made just one half-century in his last 14 matches before Monday's 257-run win against Bermuda and was facing mounting calls for him to be dropped.   

But Dravid stuck by the player and Sehwag responded in style with an 87-ball 114 with three sixes and 17 fours.   

"Viru is a very good player and I'm happy he's part of my team -- a key member. He's back in form just when we need him before a very critical match," said Dravid.   

Sehwag was named man-of-the-match after scoring his eighth hundred, but first in nearly two years.   

"The effort he has put in is fantastic. All credit to him. We expect a lot from him. He has been picked to score more than one hundred for us," said Dravid.   

Sehwag said a big innings from him was long overdue.   

"I had the confidence. I knew the captain, coach and selectors were backing me and I had to deliver," he said.   

"I was waiting for just one innings. It was due for a long time. Thank God, it has come at the right time. So I am happy with my performance."   

India, who suffered a shock five-wicket defeat against Bangladesh in their opening Group B game, still need to beat Sri Lanka on Friday to boost their chances of advancing to the Super Eight stage.