West Indies left-handed batsman Darren Bravo is hailed as one of the most talented batsmen. His batting style has been compared with Brian Lara's, who also happens to be his first cousin.
During the practice session yesterday, he was asked about his dreams and his comparison with Lara.
He is also the younger brother of Dwayne Bravo, who is a fine all-rounder.
"We all know what Lara is to cricket. He is my role model. I try and keep in touch with him whenever possible," said Bravo, who turned 22 on February 6.
"I would like to make a name for myself and perform for my country consistently," added Bravo, who also is inspired by India's Sachin Tendulkar.
Debut match
"Tendulkar is definitely my favourite batsman apart from Brian. I try and learn a lot from the way he goes about his batting," said Bravo, whose one-day match debut was against India in 2009 at Kingston, Jamaica and unfortunately for him Tendulkar did not play in that match.
"I will be realising a dream when I play in the World Cup. There is so much hype around for the World Cup and if you can perform in it you will be recognised," he said, hoping to be a permanent part of the playing eleven.
"I want to be in the playing XI and then give my best. My only aim is to go out and enjoy my batting," he said.
Bravo is a quick learner and he does not hesitate to seek help from senior players in the team.
The West Indian believes that just like he has learned a lot by talking to Lara, he also has improved a lot by talking to seniors in the team.
Right advice
"I always ask Shivnaraine Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan about batting. I also try to follow their advice and use it in the best possible way. Whenever I play against an international side, I try to talk to some of the players and learn from them. I had long conversations with Ashish Nehra when India had come to the West Indies," he said.
This does not mean he does not talk to his brother and seek his help too.
"Dwayne has already established his place in the team. He has travelled all over the world and has played in all conditions. He passes on his valuable experience.
"I get 100 per cent support from him and he always advises me to back my abilities."
Though Bravo may not have played in all conditions like his brother, he knows well the conditions in the sub-continent.
"I had played in the Champions League in 2009, so I know a little about the conditions here. It is not much different from the conditions in the Caribbean," he said.
