Bopara ready for World Cup

Updated 16.39 Thu Feb 15 2007
Keywords: England, Cricket World Cup, Ravi Bopara

Ravi Bopara has revealed his place in England's World Cup squad came as no surprise, insisting that he can help his country to glory in the Caribbean.

The 21-year-old Essex all-rounder was preferred to Lancashire opener Mal Loye in the 15-man squad, despite him having played only one game in England's one-day campaign Down Under this winter.

"I prepared myself to be going. I didn't want to be surprised in any way - so when I heard I was going, I was ready for it" - Ravi Bopara

But Bopara has claimed that he was always ready for his inclusion, saying: "I prepared myself to be going. I didn't want to be surprised in any way - so when I heard I was going, I was ready for it."

Even so, Bopara could hardly contain his delight when his prediction came true and added: "When I heard I was in, I was over the moon; the family was over the moon.

"All I can say is I'm looking forward to it. I'm feeling confident, and a little of it is to do with how the team treated me. They made me feel an important player - and I am raring to go."

Bopara's England debut came in a vital day-night match in Sydney, which revived the tourists' fortunes in the triangular tournament. His medium-pace claimed the key wicket of Mike Hussey as England began a four-match winning streak which saw them lift the trophy.

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