Play the game with passion: Wright

CHENNAI, JAN. 31. ``The main thing about cricket is that you must play it with respect, and with passion and must always follow your dreams. You never know. You are the future of Indian cricket, I would like to see you in three to four years' time,'' said John Wright, coach, Indian cricket team, addressing the players at the prize distribution function of the Pepsi inter- city under-16 cricket challenge at the SPIC-YMCA ground here on Wednesday.

Then he spoke to the media about the conditioning camp for the Indian cricket probables that begins in Chennai on February 6. ``The camp, even if it is of a short duration, is the place where the players get a chance to talk about the opponent, discuss strategies, and get themselves prepared, working on their fitness and skills'' Wright said.

Was he happy with the selection of the Indian probables? ``Myself, along with skipper Sourav Ganguly had a frank and thorough discussion with the selectors before the probables were picked. But even those who are not in the list, but perform well in the side games, have a chance to make it.''

He admitted that the search was on for a leg-spinner for the Australian series, since spear-head Anil Kumble had been ruled out because of an injury. ``We are looking at the department carefully. We know it is an important slot.'' He added that there were seven spinners among the probables.

What about the standard of domestic cricket, since he has had an opportunity to witness a few games. ``There are some good batting wickets. Then a few in the East Zone favoured the bowlers too. But no matter which country you are from, there is always a gap between domestic and international cricket. The challenge for the players lies in taking that step.''

- Our Sports Reporter

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Section  : Sport
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