India take on the mighty South Africans in their second World Cup encounter at the MCG on Sunday. In their previous three meetings in 50-over World Cups, India have failed to put one past South Africa but according to VVS Laxman, the Indian batting order has the potential and the fire power to light up the stage.
Talking exclusively to NDTV, Laxman said, "I am confident that the Indian batting line-up will fire against South Africa. India have got the talent and potential to take on the South African bowling attack."
However, the Hyderabadi batsman pointed out that against Pakistan, the Indian bowling fared well because of the inexperience of the Pakistani batting line-up but against the big names of South Africa, the batsmen have to take more responsibility and score a few extra runs.
Talking about South Africa, the former India player reiterated that they are still his favourites to win the World Cup. He also mentioned that during a chat with Gary Kirsten during the IPL auctions in Bangalore, the former India coach had said that this South African side is mentally stronger and has been working on mental aspect of the game.
"South Africa will look to learn about the mental aspect of the game from Mike Hussey", the 39-year-old said. He saw the the addition of Michael Hussey to the Proteas camp as a blessing for them as the former Aussie knows the tricks to thrive under pressure, and his local knowledge would benefit the South Africans.
Laxman pointed out that South Africa have a balanced side and looked a settled unit, but cited the fact that Dale Steyn and company has a reputation to crack under pressure.
"South Africa is a very settled unit but when their bowlers are put under pressure...they panic."
When quizzed about Gary Kirsten's presence in the "enemy" camp, the former Indian star said, "Most of the South Africans play in the IPL and with so much data available, everybody knows about every player."
Laxman, however, ended by saying that it wasn't the support staff who would influence the game but the team that handles pressure better will emerge victorious.