Nayan Mongia was one of the best wicketkeeper-batsmen India produced. He figured in the 1996 and 1999 editions of the World Cup and endeared himself to many with a competent job behind the stumps.

Since retirement he has established himself as a brilliant analyst, his comments on cricket and its practitioners highly respected. In a freewheeling interview with Haresh Pandya, the former India stumper shares his views on the upcoming World Cup.

What are India's chances in this World Cup? I must say our chances are very, very bright. In fact, India has a great opportunity to win this World Cup. I wouldn't be surprised if Mahendra Singh Dhoni and company are crowned champions.

What makes you think so? Well, just look at the Indian team's record and its current form. India will surely make the most of playing at home -- on the subcontinent, to be exact. Dhoni has at his disposal one of the most experienced teams in world cricket today. There is a nice blend of experience and youth in the Indian team.

All our senior players are very experienced while the youngsters are extremely talented. Let me reiterate that this is a golden opportunity for Team India to win the World Cup, all things considered. If we play to our strength and perform consistently well, there should be no stopping Team India. This is a very powerful team, but ultimately it boils down to a sustained collective effort.