DNA talks to Javagal Srinath about the 2011 World Cup and more.
How do you rate India’s chances?
India are favourites. But it is also to see whether the team’s batting and bowling units click in unison and at the right time. What kind of form each player will carry into the form will also be crucial. It’s good to have the favourites tag. Australia were the favourites for the last three World Cup and they performed as per the expectations. I think this time it is going to be India. Home conditions and crowd support are added advantages. Having said that, I think the team will have to play exceptional cricket throughout the one and a half months to win the World Cup.
Are you happy with the Indian pace attack? Praveen Kumar is ruled out.
It’s not about one fast bowler. Zaheer, Ashish and Munaf all have to work in tandem. If one bowler has an off day then another will have to step up. There are various combinations to win matches, not just the fast bowlers. It’s all about what kind of momentum you carry.
What difference you see in Zaheer of the 2003 WC and the one who will spearhead the Indian attack this time?
Zaheer is a champion bowler. He has nursed several injuries but importantly, he has understood how to comeback from the setbacks. That is the lesson one learns over a period of time. He is the leader of the attack and has a lot of experience. That has put him up in good stead. And if other players look up to him then there’s nothing like it.
Do you think injuries will be a concern for India?
Injuries are a part and parcel of the game. Even Australia and England are struggling with injuries, it’s not just India. I think it is something one has got to live with, there is no solution for it. Loss of form and injuries are the same to me.
You played in India in the 1996 WC. Is there any additional pressure at home?
The pressure is always a notch higher. In 1996, we lost some crucial games but still we progressed to the knock-out stage. There was a lot of pressure. But the level of pressure is different for a senior and junior player. The seniors have to be more responsible.
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