Richards bats for his country

Melbourne: If cricket is not a part of the XVIII Commonwealth Games, what is Sir Vivian Richards doing in Melbourne?

"I am an ambassador for sports for my country. I have come here to cheer and encourage my country," said the legendary West Indian cricketer.

"Antigua always has the toughest competition with Barbados," he said.

"I also have a lot of friends in Australia and it gives me a good reason to meet them."

Richards, who was the manager for the Kuala Lumpur Games in 1998, said he was looking forward to make a visit during the 2010 New Delhi Games.

"I would like to visit New Delhi in 2010. I hope your organisers invite me for the Games. It would be a great chance to revive my contacts and friendships in India," he said.

On the upcoming cricket series between India and West Indies, he said India would be the definite favourites but the Caribbeans could give them a tough time.

"Presently they (West Indies) are not playing well but that is not a cause of worry. Our boys are preparing well for the World Cup. As far as India's visit to West Indies is concerned, it is going to be a very interesting duel. Though India would start favourites, our boys are expected to give them a tough

fight," he said.