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India lack killer instinct: Wright

By N.Ananthanarayanan
March 15, 2005 09:45 IST

India must learn to finish off matches if they are to become a top-notch Test side, coach John Wright said on Monday.

India and Pakistan go into the second Test starting on Wednesday with honours even after the visitors battled back to force a draw in the first match in Mohali.

"That result has to make us more hungry," Wright told reporters on Monday. "It's disappointing, the situation the opposition was in the match not to get the result we wanted."

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India's bowlers had often struggled to dismiss tail-enders.

"If you want to be the top side in the world, you should take advantage of such situations and get the job done," Wright said. "You have just got to have that killer instinct."

India can overtake England at number two in the world Test rankings if they win the three-Test series 2-0.

The Mohali pitch played a part in frustrating Indian hopes, but Wright said it was important to adapt.

"It's a series where players on both sides find that extra bit," he said. "One of the factors, the passion of the fans is transmitted to the players, who realise the need to play at their very best."

Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer said his bowlers would try to curb the stroke-play of India opener Virender Sehwag.

"We have to take the car away from him," Woolmer said. "He should not be allowed to drive."

Woolmer said Pakistan may pick a fifth bowler due to the sapping humidity in Kolkata.

"It's going to be quite hot, the bowlers will feel dehydrated. Both teams might go with five bowlers and we have to look at that option."

If that happens, tall off spinner Arshad Khan, who has not played a Test for almost five years, will be in the frame to partner leg-spinner Danish Kaneria.

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N.Ananthanarayanan
Source: REUTERS
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