Mumbai: The tri-series in Sri Lanka will form a key part of India's preparations for the World Cup, former test cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar said in Mumbai on Saturday.
"The host nation and South Africa were on a high following impressive performances recently. As such, it will be a good test for the Indians in preparation of the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies," Manjrekar said.
"Playing in Sri Lanka is a huge challenge. More importantly, India have 20 matches to prepare themselves for the World Cup. These will be ideal preparations. Rahul Dravid and Greg Chappell have spread the net and I believe they will have the right combination when the time comes," Manjrekar said, adding "they are men I have faith in."
He said India have an excellent team and it was a good move on the part of the selectors to not include veteran Anil Kumble in the Lanka tri-series squad.
"Certainly, they have a plan. Kumble is a player who needs just a week to get back into the groove. He can always come back in time for the World Cup. It was not necessary to take him to Sri Lanka. The team has the right balance, with more youth," Manjrekar said.
Ramesh Powar, who is bound for the Sri Lanka tri-series, said, "the wickets in Sri Lanka are slow. I will try and work it out at the camp."
Vinod Kambli said he, too, was trying to make a comeback to the Indian squad.
"If Ganguly can make a comeback, why can't I?" said a much fitter looking Kambli.
"I am trying to play for Mumbai, and hopefully for India. I have made nine comebacks, and I'd like to make it the 10th."
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