Jaipur: Indian skipper Rahul Dravid is not a believer in past records. For him, the 5-1 series win over England in India last winter is not an advantage.
"Every tournament and every match is a new one," he said, and went on to speak about his team's chances in the ICC Champions Trophy.
What is the biggest challenge that England will have to overcome while playing India in India?
Their biggest challenge would be to tackle our spinners in our conditions. It all depends on how well they adapt to our conditions.
England might open their batting with Andrew Flintoff. What do you feel about it?
It does not matter to us whether he bats up the order or down. If he bats early, we will try and get him out early. It is natural for all teams to try out different combinations.
Don't you think the return of Flintoff can have a big impact on England, and are you worried about it?
His ability as a captain was well documented during the Ashes series. He is a fantastic cricketer. I like to watch him when he does well. However, I would like to see him fail against us (smiles).
Don't you think India is an easy group and that it would be a soft start for you here?
None of the teams can be called soft in this tournament. All the eight teams are capable of winning the tournament.
Let's not forget that in the last edition, the West Indies, hardly any favourites then, went on to lift the trophy.
Do you think your team stands to benefit from playing before the home crowd?
Playing before the home crowd has its pluses and minuses. It does put a bit of pressure on the players but we could benefit from the tremendous home support for our team.
How has sports psychologist Rudi Webster influenced the team?
We've had many sessions with him. I am a great believer of training the mind. Rudi is a former cricketer too and understands us very well.
How beneficial it would be for the players would depend on how each individual takes it. It's like medicine….may work for some but may not for others.
"None of the teams can be called soft in this tournament. All the eight teams are capable of winning the tournament. Let's not forget that in the last edition, the West Indies, hardly any favourites then, went on to lift the trophy."
