Indian plots India's World Cup defeat in Super Sixes
Wednesday, March 5 2003 17:37 Hrs (IST)

Cape Town: India goes into its World Cup Super Sixes opener against Kenya on Friday opposed by one of its own - Kenyan coach Sandeep Patil.

Patil, a member of India's World Cup winning squad in 1983, served as Indian coach for a year before being dumped and took up the job with the Kenyans five years ago.

He masterminded Kenya's entry into the Super Sixes, the first time a non- Test playing nation has made the second round of cricket's showpiece, following a shock win over Sri Lanka.

Patil, 48, insisted there will no mixed feelings when his team takes on the Indians under the lights at Newlands. "As a professional, I’ll have to give it my best shot," he said. "However, everyone knows India is a much superior side.

"We’ve achieved what we set out to do. It's a huge thing for Kenya to have entered the second round." Patil, an aggressive middle-order batsman in his playing days, said he was realistic of his team's chances against the big boys.

"The important thing is to do our best. We will be positive and I’m hoping our batsmen are consistent." Patil, whose contract with the Kenyan Cricket Association (KCA) ends after the World Cup, said he was keen to return to India.

"I have spoken to Jagmohan Dalmiya (BCCI chief) and have told him I will be happy with whatever is assigned to me," he said. "I want to make it clear I am not angling for any specific job."

Indian coach John Wright is also finishing his term after the World Cup, but there are indications the genial New Zealander will be asked to continue following India's advance to the Super Sixes.

Copyright AFP 2001

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