HOME | WORLD CUP 99 | INDIA | OPINION | SANJAY MANJREKAR |
April 6, 1999 |
15 against the worldSanjay ManjrekarSo now we know who the fifteen are. The men who have been entrusted with the job of bringing the World Cup back to India. The 15 men selected better have strong, sturdy shoulders, for they are going to carry the heaviest burden ever carried by an Indian team. The hope and the hype that has been created around this World Cup, much of it commercially, is by far the biggest ever. Even the non-cricket follower is getting sucked into the whole frenzy. And consequently, expectations grow to unimaginable proportions, and its weight tells on the players. The selector's job, like a few other jobs in cricket, is a thankless one. Like the wicket keepers and the umpires, the selectors seldom get applause. However, this time the selection committee needs to be congratulated for a job well done. Although the selection was more or less predictable, the selectors have shown honesty and a sense of purpose by putting together one of the best selections I have seen in recent times. The selectors have done their job and done it well -- now it is up to the players and the coach to make the most of their opportunity. Let me now share my thoughts with you on the selected bunch of fifteen who will be the centre of focus in the next few weeks.
Mohammad Azharuddin
Sachin Tendulkar
Saurav GangulyFound his feet in international cricket in the very country that is hosting the World Cup. Superb player, he has the ability to excel in all conditions. Just needs to tune himself mentally and win more matches for India on his own.
Sadagopan RameshWell-merited selection. It will be very interesting to see how he copes with the conditions in England. Has shots in his repertoire that will no doubt get him into trouble in seaming conditions. It's very vital for him to use the three-weeks preparation period prior to the tournament to decide on his shot selection. If he can do that, it's always good to have a batsman with a Test match temperament in a one-day team that is touring England.
Rahul DravidNever considered a key player in one day games in the sub-continent. But in England, he will all of a sudden find a lot of responsibility coming his way. Ajay JadejaHis tactical expertise will be valuable for the Indian team. But no doubt the team will need his batting ability more. Can he be as valuable to India's one-day side in England is the question. Important tour for the Indian vice captain to get some more credibility.
Nayan MongiaThough he wasn't an ideal one-day selection, he has been fortunate that there aren't many competent alternatives to push him hard enough. So, still the number one choice as wicket-keeper for tests as well as one-dayers.
Robin SinghBits and pieces player, and that is what his performance will be. Doesn't quite have the ability to make a huge impression in England. Although his presence on the field tends to make quite an impression on the colleagues around him.
Anil KumbleConditions totally unsuitable for the Indian leg-spinner. Remember, he had a terrible tour of England in the first half of 1996, and the conditions won't be much different this time either. Can see him being an economical bowler for India.
Javagal Srinath
Venkatesh PrasadJust what he was looking for, a tour to a country that will give him helpful conditions. Has lost a bit of pace since he was last in England, but will remain India's most dependable bowler.
Ajit Agarkar
Nikhil ChopraGood choice by the selectors. Best one-day off-spinner in the country. His type of bowling will find favour on English tracks. He'll have to learn quickly to use the wind. Not a big finger spinner, so the cold shouldn't bother him much.
Debashish MohantySurprise selection for many. But I can see the thinking behind his inclusion. From the options they had, the selectors have gone for the most experienced one, and probably the more reliable one.
Amay KhurasiaBecame an automatic selection after that quick half century on debut. I for one feel that he should have been selected in the Indian team a year ago. One year's experience at the international level would have helped his cause. A dangerous one-day batsman, but expecting him to be consistently dangerous in England would be expecting too much.
Picks and pansWe've heard from Sanjay, now let's hear from you. Which in your estimation are the stars to watch for, in this Indian squad? And why? Who could be the flops? Enter your name, email, and your thoughts, hit the 'Send' button, let's hear from you. Do look for your comments, and that of others, in the Forum section on the World Cup site, within 24 hours of posting. Sanjay Manjrekar
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