Zaheer's return is good news to indian cricketers

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DURBAN: Indian coach Gary Kirsten said the team would receive a boost with Zaheer Khan's return, but would need to prove again its ability to take 20 Test wickets.

“Obviously it's a big boost to the side, he's a quality fast-bowler,” said Kirsten. “But the bottom line is that we need to take 20 wickets. We've shown the ability over the last three years in all conditions. It's up to us to prove it to everybody and ourselves again.”

Asked about the Kingsmead pitch, Kirsten said, “I've only looked at it from the dressing room, but it's a similar colour to the outfield isn't it? Let's see how it comes out.”

Need to apply

With the conditions likely to favour the bowlers, what could India do differently if it were to bat first again? “We let ourselves down in the first Test. We were a 100 runs short. We have to apply ourselves, assess the situation, and see what we can get out of it as a batting unit,” said Kirsten.

“The players are very determined and really motivated. We are well prepared,” he added.

No comment on Raina

Kirsten refused to comment on whether Suresh Raina, under pressure to retain his spot, would play the second Test.

Raina was one of four players who chose not to attend the optional ‘nets', India's first practice session after its two-day break. Captain M.S. Dhoni, Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh were the others not present.

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