Dravid warns against complacency

Rahul Dravid: 'I expect everyone to be switched on for every game' © AFP

Rahul Dravid, the India captain, has warned his side against complacency in their opening encounter against Bangladesh at the Queens Park Oval in Trinidad on Saturday. Bangladesh shocked New Zealand with a two-wicket warm-up win and Dravid said they were not a side to be underestimated.

"I expect the team to put up a very professional and clinical performance, irrespective of who we play against," Dravid told AFP. "We respect Bangladesh. We have seen what they have done against New Zealand. We have to be switched on for that game. I expect everyone to be switched on for every game in the World Cup."

Both teams will play their group matches at the Queens Park Oval and Dravid said India were fortunate to be based in a country with a strong Indian contingent, almost simulating the conditions and support they enjoy back home.

"We are happy to be in Trinidad," Dravid said. "We do enjoy a lot of support here. We are looking forward to playing that game and I think the atmosphere will be very exciting."

While India will rely largely on their experienced top order, Dravid said the contributions from the lower order will be just as important if India are to progress in the tournament. Mahendra Singh Dhoni has shown in the past he can shift gears according to the situation of the game and Irfan Pathan's ability as a batsman has been exploited. Dravid also hoped for a consistent showing from the allrounders.

"There might be stages in a game where they have to make crucial contributions," he said. "Credit to them that a lot of them have really improved. They are really working hard on it. We expect runs from them."

India have had a break since their last warm-up game against West Indies and Greg Chappell, the India coach, said the players were raring to go. "The guys have enjoyed a few days of peace and quiet before the tournament, so in a way that's been good," Chappell said. "Now everyone is keen for the tournament to start. We've have been practising, relaxing, swimming, sailing and snorkeling. We have been doing things you would expect to do in the West Indies, things that sometimes the guys don't get an opportunity to do."