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Sidebottom backs England to win in India

03/10/2008

Recalled fast bowler Ryan Sidebottom has claimed England under Kevin Pietersen can win their two-match Test series in India this winter.

The Nottinghamshire paceman was ruled out of the one-day series against South Africa through injury.

But he has been named in the 15-man party for the trip in November and December and believes the tourists have what it takes to be successful on the pitches of the subcontinent.

"It's a tough place to go. Not may teams have gone and won there, but there is no reason why we can't," Sidebottom told inthenews.co.uk.

"England are playing great cricket at the moment. We will be working hard, we've got a good nucleus of a team and everyone gets on well, so hopefully we can."

He added: "It's a great team to play for and I'm looking forward to the tough challenge ahead."

As well as talking up England's chances of success, Sidebottom also believes that certain players in the team will draw added inspiration due to the prospect of earning a money-spinning Indian Premier League contract if they play well.

"I'm sure there will be a few guys wanting to do well with the IPL coming round so that is extra incentive I suppose to do well and perform," he added.