Australia’s middle-order batsman Darren Lehmann today said Sachin Tendulkar’s promotion in the batting order does not worry the world champions as they prepare to take on India in a crucial pool A match at Centurion on Saturday. “We all know what Sachin Tendulkar is capable of and his returning to the top doesn’t worry us,” said Lehmann, after his side underwent a three hour practice session at the Centurion Park this morning. Tendulkar returned to his favourite opening position in India’s World Cup opener against Holland yesterday and top-scored with 52. “He has had some good games against us but then we have also enjoyed our success against him,” said Lehmann, who was suspended for five games by match referee Clive Lloyd during the triangular series in Australia for issuing a racial slur against rival Sri Lankans last month. Lehmann said he could not wait to get into the park against a very good batting side. “We are aware they are a very good batting side,” said Lehmann adding “but then we are also the best bowling side in the world.” Besides Tendulkar, India have the likes of Saurav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag in their ranks, backed by young guns Yuvraj Singh, Mohammad Kaif and Dinesh Mongia. But Australia boast of an attack consisting of Glenn McGrath, Jason Gillespie, Brett Lee, Ian Harvey and Brad Hogg and hardly seem to be missing Shane Warne, now back home. The left-hander though termed the Indians as a “dangerous side,” but said the inconsistency of their opponents could benefit the Aussies. “They (India) are a bit like Pakistan these days. When they are good they are very good otherwise they look pretty ordinary.” “They are a potentially very dangerous batting side and we are aware of it. At the same time, we are very pleased with our performance in recent past.” Lehmann also spoke highly about India’s two world class spinners — Harbhajan Singh and Anil Kumble — and said it would be a keen contest against them. “We recognize India has two top class spinners in Harbhajan Singh and Anil Kumble. But we have done well in the past and are ready for them.”
