The Expert's Log - Mar. 17 - Mar. 23

Thursday, March 20, 2003:::

"Waqar was being criticised for things that were not his fault and as the tournament unfolded I really felt for him. But I cannot say that I am surprised by what has happened," Former Pakistan coach Richard Pybus
Source: BBC, UK

"You can win the World Cup. Be patient and be cool. Just dream that you are winning it," England great Geoff Boycott in a fax sent to the Indian team
Source: AFP report in The New Indian Express, India

"This will be one of those scary games. The one you know you should win but you are scared you might lose. A bit like the short putts in golf!" Greg Chappell on the India-Kenya semi-final
Source: Outlook, India

"Every time I see Muttiah Muralitharan giving expression to his right elbow something in my stomach churns with disgust. Am I harping too much? You bet I am on a relentless mission to see the name of Muralitharan expunged from all record books," Bishan Singh Bedi
Source: Mid-day, India

posted at 4:10 p.m. IST

Monday, March 17, 2003:::

"India should not take the Kenyans too lightly. They have improved in leaps and bounds through this tournament. India have got away with a lot of things in this tournament, but they shouldn't become complacent ahead of the most important stages." Former Indian captain Ajit Wadekar
Source: The New Indian Express, India

"I spoke to Shaun earlier today and conveyed to him that he will always be one of the greatest players that this country has produced. He assured me he remains committed to SA cricket and that he will give Smith his full support." South African Sport and Recreation minister Ngconde Balfour, on Graeme Smith replacing Shaun Pollock as captain
Source: The Dispatch Online, South Africa

"I have a message. Dig up your pitches...It's not conducive to exciting cricket...It's like winning Formula One in a Ford Anglia." Former English skipper Tony Greig, on the playing surfaces used in this World Cup
Source: The Sunday Times, Australia

posted at 2:59 p.m. IST