Sehwag most destructive modern batsman : Richards

Legendary West Indian Sir Vivian Richards feels Indias chances in the 2011 World Cup will largely depend on Virender Sehwags form,whom he considers the most dangerous batsman in present day cricket. Sehwag! There is no doubt about it. He is just so destructive. He is totally fearless. India need him badly (during the World Cup), the former West Indies captain said. He can be very intimidating and can provide magnificent starts to the team which will play a big role in Indias success in the World Cup, he added. While Richards said Australias performance in the ongoing Ashes series was more than enough indication of their current state,former Pakistan captain Imran Khan was of the view that the Ricky Ponting-led side lack firepower in bowling to win matches.

Former India captain Kapil Dev and Richards feel India are run-away favourites to win next years World Cup but Imran and Arjuna Ranatunga added a note of caution about their ability to soak in the pressure of playing at home.

That,in a nutshell,was how the former captains and legends felt about how things will be in a couple of months time as the marquee event starts February 19. They are the No. 1 in the world (in Tests) and have a volatile crowd behind them. The team is going to South Africa where pitches will be different but it can prove to be helpful as they prepare for the World Cup, Richards said.