Jaipur, India: England skipper Andrew Flintoff is not worried about taking on the hosts in the very first match of the tournament. He feels that his team can take on any challenge and adapt to the situation. Flintoff spoke at length about his team.
GULF NEWS: Your lessons from your last tour of India …. Does the fact that your team lost badly to India worry you?
ANDREW FLINTOFF: During our last tour we did not go on to strengthen our position after gaining control. We also did not tackle the spinners properly. We have rectified these defects this time.
GN: How important is this match as it is going to be the first match of a long winter ahead for your team?
AF: We are aiming for a good start. A victory here will go a long way.
GN: Sachin Tendulkar is in form. Any cause for worry for you?
AF: Sachin is a fine player. We discussed this matter in our team meeting and have worked out a method to stop him.
GN: Your team has been suspect to Indian spinners? What have you done to overcome this drawback?
AF: We practised hard especially against the spinners. We got some of the local spinners to bowl against our batsman for a long time.
GN: Trescothick and Vaughan had played a very big role in your team's recent wins. Is your team handicapped by their absence?
AF: We are a very flexible side. Although a few of our senior players are injured, we have the talent to handle the best of teams.
GN: Are you sure you would not be bowling in this match?
AF: Yes. I don't want to rush into bowling. The ankle still needs time to heal. I am reviewing its progress on a daily basis.
GN: We've heard that you are planning to bat up the order…
AF: Yes. I will bat at No 3.
GN: Looks like your coach isn't too pleased with this. According to him, if the team loses you or Pietersen early it could be very tight then. What's your take on this?
AF: It is wrong to consider that we have a weak batting down the order. We have some excellent allrounders and they will be able to tackle the situation.
GN: So you are confident of the strength of your team?
AF: Yes. We can beat anyone in the world. We've beaten Pakistan and Australia recently. We have the belief in us that we can do it. We were the finalists in thsi tournament last time and hope to do better this time.
