By IANS,
Mumbai : World Cup legends believe that the top order batting will be crucial in the final between India and Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium here Saturday.
The experts also said the team that handles the pressure better will come on top.
West Indian great Vivian Richards felt that a little bit of tension in a big match like final can help the players stay focused.
“It is a big game and I believe that little bit of tension and nervousness will allow you to be a little more aware. It is nice to have a little concern to concentrate harder, and longer,” Richards, who was part of World Cup winning team in 1975 and 1979, told CNN-IBN.
Imran Khan, however, said the players will have to see off the pressure of playing in a big match.
“You can see what happened to Umar. He is the most successful bowler and Sehwag took him apart in one over. Sehwag does not move his feet and he has the ability to play outgoing ball, so he is a great cutter of the ball. It gives him time to play pretty late.
“A batsman of class of Sachin Tendulkar was given four chances against Pakistan. It is pressure and nothing else. But having gone through that match, he could not be under same pressure today,” said the winning captain of the 1992 team.
Allan Border, who captained Australia to the 1987 Cup victory, said that top order batting will be crucial for both teams.
“Top order will be important because that is where you can gain or lose momentum.”
“Opening slot is the best place to go and play your natural game.”