On Tuesday afternoon, West Indies captain Brian Lara had some things to say about the World Cup.

Here goes:

“We wanted this (four-match) series very badly... We had a lot to gain and (some) guys got the opportunity to present their case for selection in the World Cup 15... If we (West Indies and India) get past the first round, then we’ll be meeting in the Super Eight, so it’s important to win tomorrow...

“Today, it’s hard to say Australia won’t be in the semis... Once there, I hope they’re going to falter... However, we’ve got the ingredients to get there, too... We’re quietly confident as we’ve got the game to make the last four (at least)...

“The Australians have matchwinners in plenty and I’m looking for more matchwinners in our team... Right now, we’ve only got a handful... The good thing is that we’ve got a team which is gelling and it’s just a matter of cleaning up a few things in our act (before the World Cup)...

“I’ve spoken about the semi-finals... It will be a different game once that stage is reached... Any of the four teams could win the World Cup...”