India's 1999 World Cup coach Anshuman Gaekwad sees only fitness as a hurdle for Dhoni's men

Losing the ODI series 2-3 without India's leading cricketers ufffd Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar and Gautam Gambhir ufffd was a commendable effort in testing South African conditions. The fighting spirit which was on display, has only raised the expectations from Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men at the forthcoming World Cup.

India's 1999 World Cup coach Anshuman Gaekwad takes stock of India's chances in an interview to MiD DAY
yesterday.

Fast bowler Munaf Patel stretches during a training session in Durban on the recent tour of South Africa. PIC/GETTY IMAGES

Excerpts:
On India's World Cup chances:
They are very good. Recent performances in India and overseas have been quite incredible.
The best part is the combination of youth and experience is working very well for Team India. I am hopeful and confident of India's chances. This team has great potential to lift the World Cup.

On whether this is India's best ever World Cup team:
This is definitely the best Indian team we have had for a World Cup.
Let's not forget that we will be playing matches in February-March when it is going to be hot. This is a clear advantage to our batsmen and bowlers.