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 Fans' expectations 'crippled' India's chances: Sangakkara
29th Mar 2007 22:27 IST
Agencies
Sympathising with India's fallen heroes, Sri Lankan stumper Kumar Sangakkara said the weight of a billion expectations had a "crippling effect" on their World Cup campaign.
"To be honest, I feel sorry for India's cricketers. They'll now face a torrent of criticism and abuse in the coming weeks. Fanatical fans will no doubt be burning effigies," Sangakkara said.
"The huge expectation places their players under enormous pressure. And when that expectation is raised a degree or two, it can easily have a crippling effect," he wrote in a column for 'Cricinfo' website.
The Indians crashed out of the showpiece event in the first round itself after losing to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Their only victory came against minnows Bermuda and the poor show caused a furore in India with fans burning posters and effigies of the otherwise adored players.
Sangakkara said he felt lucky not to be playing for India or Pakistan as Lankan fans were much more forgiving than their neighbours when it came to defeat.
"In Sri Lanka, the general public seem to have a more easy-going perspective. The attitude of our fans makes it easier for us. Yes, we still get our fair share of criticism. There can be mud-slinging in the media too," Sangakarra said. |
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