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SCHOOLBOYS BEAT SCRIBES AT THEIR OWN GAME

HYDERABAD

With the security net spread thick and wide around the visiting Englishmen, covering the current England-India series has become a nightmare for scribes. Particularly for those who looked for a quote or two from the rare visitors. For, not only were the security personnel preventing journos from soliciting interviews with the English cricketers, but even the players were making themselves inaccessible.

But a threesome from the International School of Hyderabad had no such problems.

Monal Shah, John McGaw and Prem Soppogu coolly walked into the team hotel and were delighted when Michael Vaughan and Ashley Giles agreed to speak to them.

Excerpts of the interview:

Monal: How do you rate your chances in the coming series, Mr. Vaughan?

India has a good team. It is hard to beat them at home. That makes us the clear underdogs. However, the tag of 'favourites' does put a little extra pressure on the home side. And then we can draw some confidence from our successful tours to Pakistan and Sri Lanka last winter.

John: Have you set yourself a target in terms of runs for the series?

No, not yet. My first priority is to make the starting line-up for the Tests. I managed just two runs in the first warm-up game in Mumbai, but hope to spend more time in the middle here. Of course, I am confident of doing well on the tour.

Prem: Are you comfortable batting on Indian pitches?

Wickets here are quite different from the ones in England. But this being my third trip here, I hope my previous experience coupled with the warm-up games will stand me in good stead.

Monal; Mr Giles, how do you like to remember your 17 wickets in Pakistan last winter?

I want delighted with my performance. It is a memory I would always cherish. However, I should not rest on that feat, but start again and focus my attention on the Tests ahead.

John: Do you still have injury problems?

I am recuperating from a major surgery and making good progress. In fact, I am ahead of schedule.

Monal: What is your favourite fielding position?

I field at gully for my county. But in the national team, that position goes to some senior member and I find my self on the ropes. Of course, I use my throwing arm to good effect.

Monal: What are your first impressions of the country and people of India?

"People here are warm and welcome you. The hotels and food has been excellent to date," said Giles

"I find that Indians really enjoy their cricket. My teammates and I are looking forward to the tour being a success," felt Vaughan.

Many a visitor complains about the weather. What do you say?

"It's been very good thus far and quite a contrast to the weather now in England where winter is approaching," said Giles. Both felt that the climate in Hyderabad was particularly pleasant.

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