SA Imran Tahir could be Proteas’ X-factor vs WI

Every World Cup throws up an X-Factor. Pakistan-born leggie Imran Tahir could prove to be just that for South Africa in the current edition

SA Imran Tahir could be Proteas' X-factor vs WI

Every World Cup throws up an X-Factor. Pakistan-born leggie Imran Tahir could prove to be just that for South Africa in the current edition.

While Johan Botha is the first choice slow bowler, it will be a toss-up between Tahir and Robin Peterson for the second spinner's spot.

"If given an opportunity, I promise to make an impact," Tahir told MiD DAY on the eve of the match against West Indies.

"Right now, I am enjoying being a part of this squad. The captain, coach and all senior players have given me great support. I am yet to make my international debut but donning the South African colours in the warm-up games has given me great confidence. As I have said in the past, when I do play, I want to make a long lasting impact. I don't want to be one of those bowlers who play a few games and fizzle away.

"The skipper told me that if I do play, I would play as an attacking option. I can keep the runs down but I am expected to take wickets," he added.

In the two warm-up games, Tahir finished with figures of 3-35 (against Zimbabwe) and 1-31 (Australia), relishing the spinner friendly conditions.

"I have travelled all over the world but I am yet to play top-class cricket in India. That's one of my dreams, and I know I can succeed in these conditions," said the 31-year old.

South Africa captain Graeme Smith revealed during India's tour earlier this year that Tahir was kept out of the five ODIs so as to preserve his mystery element.u00a0

"It's the most varied attack that we have ever had.u00a0 We have got our ideas about how we would like to set up in this event. We have covered every base there and we are really excited," Smith said yesterday.

Meanwhile, the West Indies, who had lost to South Africa in the last 11 encounters, are keen on recreating the magic of the 1980s.

"We want to go out and play like we used to do in the eighties, with a lot of pride and passion. We are quietly confident that we can go out and get the job done. We have to take one game at a time and as of now we are ready for SA tomorrow," said skipper Darren Sammy.

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