We were not professional at the end: Lara by Cricket Archive Staff Reporter

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Player:	BC Lara, CH Gayle, S Chanderpaul
Event:	West Indies in India 2006/07

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DateLine: 1st February 2007

 

Their three-wicket win notwithstanding, West Indies captain Brian Lara said his team did not show professionalism in closing out the game against India in a convincing fashion which was a worrying factor in view of the upcoming World Cup.

 

"I am happy that we were able to win this crucial game to remain in the series. But we have not shown professionalism in the end, which is important for us to correct ourselves in future games to win the World Cup," Lara said after winning the third ODI to keep alive the four-match series.

 

The West Indies were cruising at one stage needing only 12 runs with six wickets in hand when Lara got out. They proceeded to lose another two batsmen before reaching home, injecting some excitement to the finish.

 

"We did not show professionalism at the end overs where we lost few wickets. This is an important factor that we need to address for solid performance and finish like professionals," the master batsman said.

 

Replying to a question about leaving out in-form left-hander Shivnarine Chanderpaul for the game, Lara said all the players in the squad needed to contribute. "Look at the Australian team. Everyone is a contributor and they are true professionals. Chandrapaul had slight pain in his leg and he was rested. But we need to try and build lot more in our players before the World Cup. Besides Chris Gayle and Chanderpaul, we have to see that everyone contributes to the team cause."