Ind-SA series caught me in dilemma, admits Kirsten

Durban, Apr 15 (UNI) Uncertain about his loyalties in the drawn Test series, Gary Kirsten admitted that for a few moments he was stuck in dilemma as to who he should back - India or South Africa - but added that he was satisfied with the home team's win in the last Test.

''Whatever I may have said previously, I'd be lying if I said I never had any doubts about my loyalties if the result of the series was delicately balanced,'' Kirsten was quoted as saying by 'The Beeld' newspaper here.

After trailing the Test series 0-1, India produced a spirited performance in Kanpur to finish the match in just three days to win it by eight wickets.

The South African tour was Gary Kirsten's first official assignment as Team India's coach who himself was a prolific opener for Proteas till 2004 before he quit his illustrious international career.

''I'm happy to be able to say I wanted India to win the last Test,'' he said.

However, Kirsten admitted that it is always tough to coach a team like India where the expectations of people keep on rising but said his late coach Bob Woolmer will be someone whom he would always look up to draw inspiration.

''I remember how Bob lived for his job as international coach.

Even though the players told him not to get worked up for nothing, he could not calm down,'' he added.

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