Date:04/03/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/03/04/stories/2003030406382300.htm

Sport - World Cup

Stewart keen to avoid waiting game

PORT ELIZABETH March 3. England's Alec Stewart has called for the last round of World Cup group matches to be played on the same day to avoid a repeat of the agonising wait his side faces to see if it qualifies for the Super Six.

England, which narrowly lost its last Group A game to Australia on Sunday, has to wait until Tuesday's match between Zimbabwe and Pakistan to discover if it will progress.

``In a way the defeat to Australia hasn't affected us too much and Pakistan do know what they have to win by, but I believe the last round of matches should all be played on the same day at the same time,'' Stewart said.

``That's what they do in soccer and in the last World Cup four years ago. As it happened our game went into the second day against India but I believe the last round should be played on the same day.''

``I can't remember a previous situation like this in my career, waiting around for another result,'' said the veteran wicketkeeper. ``I just hope that Pakistan win but don't win too well.

``It all depends on what Pakistan side turns up and I guess it will probably be best for us if Pakistan bat first.

``There is a momentum and a bit of confidence being gained inside the England side at the moment,'' said Stewart who played in the 1992 World Cup final. ``That's why, if we do qualify, I think we've got a very good chance of progressing further. We're just starting to move forward as a confident outfit and knowing what is required to win. If England squeezes into third place it will play two Super Six matches in Bloemfontein before moving to East London.— Reuters