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Asia Cup debacle a wake-up call: Shastri
August 06, 2004 17:59 IST
Celebrated cricketer-turned commentator Ravi Shastri says the Indian team's debacle in the Asia Cup in Sri Lanka will serve as a "wake-up call" for the side.
"The defeat in the Asia Cup final was a big setback. But knowing the talent of this side, it is going to be temporary. It is a wake-up call for the team," said the former all-rounder, who was in Delhi for the unveiling of the ICC Champions Trophy.
"1983 was the turning point of Indian cricket. This team has the potential to repeat the feat of the 1983 World Cup-winning side," said Shastri, a member of the Kapil Dev-led team that won the World Cup.
India, he said, could begin their pursuit of the ultimate dream this September.
"For starters, India can look to win the Champions Trophy," he said.
"We are the joint-holders. It is an important tournament. India is placed in a group alongside Pakistan and Kenya. It is a knock-out, you lose one game and you are out. You got to be on the top of your game."
Dashing middle-order batsman Yuvraj Singh, who made his international debut in the 2000 Champions Trophy, said he has fond memories of the tournament and would look to give his best in the 12-team competition, beginning in England on September 10.