Sarwan keen to make impact

Ramnaresh Sarwan, the West Indies batsman, has said he is happy to return to the national fold after being named in the 15-man squad for the World Cup, and is keen to hit form during the ODI series against Sri Lanka starting on January 31. Sarwan last played for West Indies in the ODI series at home against South Africa in May and June 2010. He was subsequently dropped due to fitness issues and indifferent form on the domestic circuit. He also wasn't offered a West Indies central contract.

"It feels really great to be back," Sarwan said in Colombo. "We had a really good workout today and so far I am just happy to fit into the team again. We have a very good team vibe going and it is very important that we maintain that and build on that. It is also important that we get off to a good start in this series and try to get that early momentum."

West Indies play three ODIs on their tour of Sri Lanka. The series was postponed because of poor weather during West Indies' tour late last year, with the Test series being marred by persistent rain. The matches during the ODI series were initially scheduled to be held in Hambantota and the renovated Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, two of the three Sri Lankan venues for the World Cup, but the ICC didn't permit the venues to be used for international games just prior to the quadrennial event. Instead, all three ODIs will be played at the SSC.

"The pitch at the SSC is normally a good one for batting," Sarwan said. "I have done well here (in Sri Lanka in Tests) before. I am just hoping to maintain the same level of success I have had before, make a major contribution to the team, and try to bat us into winning positions."

"The greatest dream is to win the World Cup for all the people of the Caribbean and all those around the world who support us. We have to give Darren (Sammy) our full support. Obviously, he is still a bit new to the job as captain so it is important that he gets our full backing. We need to be consistent as a team and that would give us a really good chance of winning."

West Indies and Sri Lanka have, unsurprisingly, picked their World Cup squad for the three-match series.