Ex-cricketers agree with Fletcher's vision for India

Former Indian cricketers agree with coach Fletcher's view that India will rule world cricket for the next five years

Au00a0series-clinchingu00a0performance by India's fringe players' squad in the ODIs against West Indies prompted new coach Duncan Fletcher to declare that India can dominate international cricket for the next five years.


Indian players celebrate a wicket during the fourth ODI against West
Indies at the Sir Vivian Richard Stadium in St John's yesterday. PIC/AFP

India's cricketing fraternity has no doubt that we can rule the world. "Of course, we can. Fletcher is right in saying so. Well, we can't put a definite number of years (that we will dominate), but I am sure with the way things are going, we will definitely be a strong team to beat in the coming years," Farokh Engineer told MiD DAY from Lancashire, UK yesterday. "Credit should be given to the players who gelled well in short time. Though Fletcher has had a good start, his inputs would be minimal as he has just arrived," added the former India stumper.

After India's young side took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series against West Indies in Antigua on Saturday, Fletcher said: "Indian cricket is in a very, very healthy state presently due to the amount of talent India have. I know five years in international cricket is a long time but unless some international teams suddenly come up, I don't see (India losing its grip)."

Without taking away anything away from the Indian team, it should also be noted that it wasn't a full strength West Indies side either.

However, former India coach Anshuman Gaekwad felt there is no need for any comparisons. "There is no need of any comparison. It is about the potential Indian youngsters have shown. The Rainas, Sharmas and Kohlis are a matured lot. We have a perfect mix in the team. We have very good quality players on the bench as well," said Gaekwad. "There is no doubt that we will dominate international cricket. This is Indian cricket's best phase," he added emphatically.

India's 1983 World Cup-winner, Madan Lal said top-class exposure to youngsters is proving beneficial.
"Our cricket is quite organised now. The set-up is better than ever and youngsters get great exposure these days. It is all reflecting in their game," said Madan.