Johannesburg, Jan 29: Describing the team's dismal performance in New Zealand as "a good wake-up call", Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly today said his side was determined to come up with a good performance in the World Cup. "The boys are keen to put their heads down and work together to do well in the World Cup," Ganguly said on Indian team's arrival here this morning.
"We need to play as a unit, and everyone needs to perform. Our poor performance in New Zealand has been a good wake-up call," he said.
The team arrived here to a warm welcome from fans and friends who wished the side good luck in the World Cup. A number of supporters and officials of the Indian consul were present at the airport to receive the team.
The team was officially received by chairman of World Cup organising committee Ali Bacher who was all praise for Sachin Tendulkar.
"I believe, he will become the second greatest batsman of all time, second only to Sir Donald Bradman," he said.
Ganguly, who spoke briefly to the media, said his team was totally focussed at the job ahead and not distracted by things like the contracts row.
"The dispute over the sponsorship issue is now past and we are here to concentrate on playing cricket," he said.
The players then headed for Durban where they will be based till the start of the tournament on February 8. They will play their first warm-up game against Kwazulu-Natal on February 4. Bureau Report