Wicket-keeping helping my batting: Dravid

Birmingham, July 07: Contrary to the theory that wicket-keeping would put unnecessary strain on him, Indian vice-captain Rahul Dravid feels the extra job behind the wickets was helping him in his batting.

Dravid, who hit a match-winning 64 against Sri Lanka yesterday to help India move into the final of the triangular one-day series, said he was enjoying his dual role as a wicketkeeper-batsman.

"It (wicket-keeping) probably helps (in batting) because you are in the best position to see what is happening," David said after India won their third match in the tournament.

"I was worried initially how it would go. Its been a challenge but so far it has gone well and I have enjoyed it.

"I have worked hard at it and its always nice to hold a few catches," said Dravid who been outstanding behind the wickets too. He has so far taken six catches and effected a smart stumping.

"It has been satisfying, more so because we have been winning. To play a big part in it is always nice," said the stylish Karnataka batsman who has scores of 73 not out, 8, 82 and 64 from the four matches.

Dravid was all praise for Yuvraj Singh with whom he put on 91 runs in yesterday's game which pulled India out of deep trouble and anchored the side to safety.

"Yuvraj has really come of age in this tournament. He has batted beautifully and his fielding has been outstanding as well. He had a hand in two run-outs today, so in that sense he adds value to the team," Dravid said.

"It is always nice to see young boys come through - men like him and Mohammad Kaif," Dravid said.

Dravid agreed that the pitch at Edgbaston was helpful to the fast bowlers but he did not think it was difficult to bat on.

"It wasn't a 250-260 kind of wicket. Probably a 220 kind of strip," said Dravid about the pitch which troubled most of the Indian and Sri Lankan batsmen yesterday.

"It seamed around all day actually. There was a bit in it for the bowlers. But the bowlers of both sides bowled very well," he said.

Dravid said the team was finally getting its act together but it was too early to speculate about India's chances at the next year's World Cup.

"Its a long way to the World Cup. Six months is a long time in international cricket.

Everyone has got the World Cup in mind and everyone has been trying out different combinations but I think we are moving in the right direction," he said.

"We are getting a good blend of youth and experience. We have worked hard in getting our combinations right," Dravid said.

"If we continue to improve we have a realistic chance. But we have to improve from here because in the World Cup we would face a few very good sides.

Dravid said the first priority before the team was to try and win the current series.

"It is important we try and win this series rather than concentrate on the World Cup which is still some six months away," he said.