It's difficult playing on Indian tracks, says Cronje

Hansie Cronje's men had to wait two hours for their baggage to arrive on the belt at Chatrapati Shivaji international airport when they landed in Mumbai in the wee hours of Thursday morning for their tour of India. However, they didn't have a word of complaint. True ambassadors, indeed. The South African cricketers are here to play two Test matches and five-one dayers.

"Every member of team is raring to go. Each player wants to win the series in India" warned Cronje. The captain is aware that playing in India on Indian tracks is going to be difficult. "I don't want to put the chances of winning in terms of percentage. Everything will depend on how India performs especially after their poor show in Australia.''

Cronje is aware of how the pitches will behave. "I don't think they will be different from the 1996 tour. However, we have learnt more in the last few years. We are stronger and more confident now" Cronje added.

The 30-year-old South African captain followed India's tour `Down Under' with keen interest. It was all part of his home work. "The Indian team missed the services of Azharuddin and Ajay Jadeja. However, I don't underestimate the young blood, which can be more effective on home soil".

Cronje was confident that his balanced outfit could do the trick. "Shaun Pollock, Lance Klusner and Jacques are dangerous all-rounders, Herschelle Gibbs and Gary Kirsten are top class openers and Alan (Donald) is hungry for wickets. I think the key to Test cricket success is experience and we've got that" added Cronje.

The team is without the services of injured wrist-spinner Paul Adams and electric fielder Jonty Rhodes. His wife is expecting a child and Rhodes has expressed a desire to be with his family. On the 1996 tour, the team didn't have Kallis and Pollock who have performed better in the last 20 months. "We shall make good use of guys like Nicky Boje and Clive Eksteen" signed off Cronje.

The first of the two Test matches is due to start in Mumbai from February 24. The South Africans begin their tour with the first game against Board President's XI here at the Brabourne Stadium.