Bowlers will have to do well for India to retain trophy: Javagal Srinath

HYDERABAD: It was imperative for the Indian bowlers to perform well if India has to retain the cricket World Cup title, former paceman Javagal Srinath said today.

"I am sure they will put their might behind even this time. They have the team. It's all about getting their act together. If the bowlers do well I am sure the batsmen will definitely perform. It's a batsmen game by the end of the day. If the bowlers do well I am sure this trophy can be retained by India," Srinath, told reporters on the sidelines of an event here today.

"Bowling will be very crucial. We need three fast bowlers to do really well. Bowlers win matches on many occasions. I hope Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ishant Sharama, Mohammed Shami and Stuart Binny put their might behind and do well for the team," said Srinath, who is currently an ICC match referee.

Asked if the Indian bowling attack is strong enough, Srinath said, "We are strong...there is no doubt about it. There is a decent amount of experience and they have spent enough time in Australia. I think they have understood the conditions better now and they know what to do and I am sure they will do well."

"The last time people said that the country which hosts World Cup, would never win. That was the sentiment that was expressed but I think that has changed. Under pressure India delivered last time. To win the World Cup in India was not that easy. They won many games to become champions," Srinath added.