Shane Warne had backed India to go the distance in the Twenty20 World Cup. He attributed the team’s exit to T20’s unpredictable nature and India being unable to get a few basics right.
The Australian leg-spinner, speaking on the sidelines of an event to launch the Monarch Cruise experience, said: “Any team can beat any side in Twenty20. Bangladesh could have beaten India off the last ball. India did everything they could (against West Indies). Look where it ended. They did not bowl well enough. The no-balls and the dew cost them (the match).
“In T20, doing the basic things right is the way to get into winning positions. People will see this as an upset, some will say the West Indies are pretty good in this form of the game. The West Indies were outstanding yesterday; so the combination of not quite getting things right and their fantastic performance was why India got knocked out.”
Coaching IndiaOn his response to an offer to coach India, Warne said: “India is a talented side, there is a lot of pressure. When the team does not play to expectations, the coach faces criticism. I have had my share of criticism in my career. I have always been open to anything, whether coaching India, an IPL team or England. It means somethings will have to be left out.”
He added: “I am not sure I am ready to coach right now, maybe down the track. I never say no to an opportunity. If an opportunity presents itself or comes to my door, I would always weigh it and then give an honest answer about what I think. If you can’t give a 100 per cent to whatever it maybe then you are better off saying no.”
The Australian, who was involved with the IPL as Rajasthan Royals’ captain, is currently doing broadcasting work for different channels as cricket expert. “I definitely want to be stay involved with cricket. I love commentary and I hope people enjoy listening to me.”
He and former teammate Brett Lee were present for the launch. Famous ex-international cricketers and non-cricket celebrities are expected to be present on board.
Lee said: “My aim is to deliver India’s fastest bowler. It is a work in progress.” Lee was replying to the question about the prospect of coaching India.
