Karim determined to make the most of this chance

Syed Saba Karim firmly believed that he would get another chance to play for India. The Bengal wicketkeeper, who left for Mumbai on Thursday said that he had been expecting a call for some time now. ``I had an inkling that I would get a recall to the Indian team,'' said Karim at the Eden Gardens today. ``After I had been dropped from the Indian side last year, I had just set myself a goal to perform to the best of my abilities. That attitude has finally paid off today,'' said the bearded, erudite stumper who works in the Corporate Communications Department of TISCO.

Amidst the congratulations from his teammates and some of the other cricketers from Mumbai, Karim also added that he would play in a relaxed frame of mind. ``The advantage that I have this time is that Saurav Ganguly is the captain of the Indian team. Since I have played with him for a number of years, I know his way of operation. That is definitely a boost to my confidence,'' said Karim. He was also quick to add, ``this time I am determined to stick around. The international exposures in the past has been a learning experience. I plan to utilise this chance properly. I have realized that maintaining one's place in the team is more difficult than being selected.''