Confident of making World Cup final squad: Vinay

Elated at being named in India's 30-strong list of probables for next year's One-day World Cup, Karnataka pacer R Vinay Kumar has now set his sights on securing a place in the final squad by impressing the selectors with fine Ranji performances.

"It's been always my dream to be a part of the World Cup team. I am excited about my selection in the preliminary list. My aim is to secure a place in the final squad, which would be pruned to half by next month," Vinay said.

"I am working on improving my game each day. I know the battle for last 15 will not be easy but I am confident of making the final cut on the basis of good show during the Ranji season," he added.

The national selection committee on Saturday announced the 30-member probables list for the quadrennial event starting February 19, which would be pruned to half on January 19 next year.

When asked whether he is ready to play the role of an all-rounder in the Indian team, the Karnataka Ranji captain said there are still some areas in his bowling that needed improvement.

"I still need to improve my bowling so as to pick more wickets at the international level. I want to bring more variety into my bowling, more seam and pace. After that, I will look to contribute through my batting as it's very important for the tail-enders these days to score some runs in the end," said the 26-year-old right-arm medium pacer.

After propelling his side to the quarter-finals of the Ranji trophy courtesy Karnataka's first innings lead in their drawn match against Uttar Pradesh, Vinay said his side has performed as per expectations.

Karnataka now play Madhya Pradesh in the quarter-finals in Indore from December 24-27.

"I want my side to become Ranji champions and the way boys are performing in this season we are confident of doing so. I am satisfied with the overall performance of my team in their drawn match against Uttar Pradesh. We played good cricket.

"From now onwards, road to success will not be that easy and we have to play like a unit to win the title. Everyone has to do his bit," Vinay said.