Sehwag will play a key role in World Cup: Amarnath
Monday, January 20 2003 15:11 Hrs (IST)

New Delhi: His batting credentials already established, the swashbuckling Virender Sehwag will also prove his worth as a part-time bowler and play a key role in India's World Cup campaign in South Africa next month, Mohinder Amarnath said on Monday.

"Sehwag will play a crucial role both with the bat and the ball," Amarnath, man-of- the-match in India's World Cup triumph in 1983, said.

Amarnath ensured a piece of history for himself by scoring 26 and then scalping three crucial wickets in the final against West Indies at Lord's in 1983 which helped India win its first ever World Cup.

The former all-rounder said he expected the Delhi player to enact a similar role as his during the mega event starting on February 8.

"He is the one who can play a match-winning role," the stylish right-hand batsman said.

Amarnath was optimistic about India's chances at the World Cup and said the disastrous New Zealand tour will not have any bearing on the team's showing in South Africa.

"Our team has the potential and the talent to win the World Cup. In New Zealand it was a different story but World Cup is another ball game."

The vexed contract issue, if not resolved in time for the Cup, will also not bother Indian cricketers much or affect their performance, he said. "Once the player is on the cricket ground, he forgets everything else."

Amarnath was not too happy with the exclusion of V V S Laxman from the 15-member Indian World Cup squad. "I have nothing against Dinesh Mongia but I think Laxman should have been picked.

"Laxman has the experience and his performance on the New Zealand tour should not have been a criteria as others too did not do wonders."

PTI

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