India's World Cup-wining coach Gary Kirsten on Tuesday said it will be waste of talent if 'highly skilled' fast bowler Shantakumaran Sreesanth doesn't take the next step in his career.
Kirsten, during his farewell media conference before leaving for Cape Town, said the Kerala pacer is good in the Test matches but needs to be more consistent in the shorter version of the game. The temperamental fast bowler featured in two World Cup matches, the tournament opener against Bangladesh and the final against Sri Lanka, but went for runs on both occasions.
"Sreesanth is not only one who has not performed to his full potential so far. He has performed brilliantly in South Africa and in other Test matches. But I feel he needs to be consistent in ODIs," said Kirsten.
"Hopefully, he will be able to take that next step and if he is unable to do that, it will be a waste of talent."
Asked about the quality of fast bowling in the team, he said: "The bowling is a slight concern though the state of Indian cricket is in a healthy position. If the bowlers can withstand the rigours of playing continuous international cricket, then the situation could be dealt with."
The former South African opener also said Delhi pacer Ishant Sharma is a special talent.
"Ishant has a promising future and hopefully he will get better with the experience," he said.