We did well, do not belittle our win: Suresh Raina

When they left India for the West Indies, they were dubbed a second-string side. The young team hit back with successive wins in the Caribbean. Now, questions are being asked on the host team's capabilities. N Ananthanarayanan writes.

When they left India for the West Indies, they were dubbed a second-string side. The young team hit back with successive wins in the Caribbean. Now, questions are being asked on the host team's capabilities.

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Skipper Suresh Raina on Saturday was furious at a suggestion that the victories in the current limited overs series did not count much because the West Indies were going through a rough patch.

"Earlier, you said we were a young side. Now you say there is no competition, the opposition is too weak," an angry Raina told reporters at press conference on Saturday.

Raina felt that instead of belittling the team's achievement, the players should be appreciated for their show.

"We see this as a good opportunity. Most of the guys have done well in first-class cricket. It feels good. Someone or other has put his hand up and we have prevailed," he said.

Even coach Duncan Fletcher is upset with the suggestion that the current West Indian side was just not good enough.

"I don't think it (the West Indies) is a bad side. It's an international side. It has players who have performed well in the past," said Fletcher.

Fletcher, who will face his big test when India take on England next month, was surprised by the level of maturity the young team showed during the one-day games.

"It's a reflection on the pool of talent India currently have. IPL must have done some good," he said.