Feb. 2: World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev feels all-rounder Yusuf Pathan’s role in the lower-middle order could swing the Indian team’s fortunes in the mega-event.
“Pathan can turn the game around for India coming at 6-7. He has the capability to win matches from losing situations,” the legendary all-rounder said when asked about the one player who could turn the tide in the February 19-April 2 tournament.
“As long as he is at the crease, the opposition cannot breathe easy,” he added. On whether the Baroda Bomber should bat up the order, Kapil said, “After the advent of Twenty20 cricket, there is no specific number for a batsman. It (T20) has changed the game. Any batsman can bat at any number. Better to leave it to the captain.”
Even as Indian cricketers have expressed their desire to win the World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil sang a different tune saying the event was not only about the batting maestro. “Sachin is not (the only one) playing cricket. It is India that is playing. Jitna important jeetna unke liye hai, utna hi important doosron ke liye bhi hain (Winning the World Cup is as important to others as it is to him),” Kapil said.
“Yes, he is a great player and he has served the country the most. But by placing him above the team, you are insulting the other 14 members in the squad,” Kapil said. Former Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga said careful planning was required to win the World Cup.
“It is all about planning. If you analyse it, we created new things in 1996 the World Cup. With Romesh Kaluwitharana opening with Sanath Jayasuriya, we targeted 120-150 runs in the first 20 overs.”
Chika advises India to play sans pressure
Enjoy playing in front of home fans instead of getting bogged down by their expectations and success would follow — this is the advice that 1983 World Cup winning team member and chairman of selectors Kris Srikkanth has for the Indian cricket team ahead of the mega event starting February 19.
The flamboyant former batsman mentioned, “I advise the Dhoni’s team to play to their natural abilities. Be relaxed. Do not put pressure on yourself. Enjoy when you win the games.”