Chappell is real hero of India's success Down Under: More

New Delhi, Mar 24 (UNI) Acknowledging the efforts of former coach Greg Chappell, ICL executive board member Kiran More said the Australian should be given due credit for what he has done for Indian cricket.

Talking to newspersons here today, More said, ''I have great respect for Greg Chappell.'' ''These were his (Chappell's) ideas that are being used today and are producing great results for the team,'' he claimed.

More, who is a former chairman of selectors, said giving Dhoni the captaincy for India's one-day side was not an immediate decision by the BCCI under Sharad Pawar and during his tenure the Jharkhand lad was being considered for the all important post.

''Dhoni's selection as the captain was not an immediate decision.

When Chappell was the coach for this Indian team, the issue was discussed time and again,'' he said. ''He is great player and a positive captain too. '' He further added that Dhoni's recent remarks which said, ''I was very clear about the players I wanted in the team and wanted to send the message across,'' need to be accepted as he is the captain of this successful side.

''One needs to accept the captains' words and especially when he is producing results for you,'' More said adding,''Everybody is praising the team and Dhoni, but what if they had performed poorly.

I have been a great believer of his captaincy and I would have still backed this team.'' He also showered praise on India's Test captain Anil Kumble and said people should not overlook his achievement in Australia as it was an extension of his efforts that India went on to win the CB Series.

''Kumble has done a creditable job in Australia and everyone forgot him after the CB series' win,'' he said. ''During this moment of glory people have forgotten Kumble who started it all.

I think he handled the team very well throughout the tour. He was there during the 'Harbhajan's racial remarks' issue and the way he handled the team is really creditable.'' BCCI president Sharad Pawar's recent claims that said Sachin Tendulkar was the driving force for Dhoni's selection as the captain were endorsed by More but he said the Little Master is always considered for his valuable inputs for the team.

''Sachin's decisions have always been influential and he is always consulted for every big or small issue pertaining to Indian cricket.'' The former Indian wicketkeeper was a little disappointed after India's CB series' star Gautam Gambhir was left out of the squad for the opening Test against South Africa.

''Gambhir should have been included in the squad. He is a very talented batsman and should therefore be moulded so that he can become even better,'' he opined.

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