Batsman eyes Mumbai glory

INDIA'S favourite cricketing son, Sachin Tendulkar, will play a World Cup final in his home city of Mumbai after helping his country beat Pakistan by 29 runs in Mohali.

Tendulkar was named man-of-the-match for his top score of 85 in India's 260 for nine, a total they duly defended in yesterday's semi-final.

The master batsman can therefore look forward to taking on Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium as India set their sights on at last following up their maiden World Cup win 28 years ago.

"Going back to Mumbai for this event is a wonderful occasion," said Tendulkar, still one short of becoming the first man to make 100 international hundreds.

He may yet be reserving that feat for the grandest stage, but is more concerned that India seal the title on Saturday. "I just hope we can get the job done," he said.

India were indebted not just to Tendulkar, but the early striking of his opening partner Virender Sehwag and a fine all-round display in the field.

"I thought the way we bowled was brilliant and the way we fielded was absolutely fabulous.

"Viru got us off to a flier, which gave us a little bit of extra time after the wicket slowed down a bit. We just had to make sure we got a fighting total.

"When we started I was thinking 310-315, but the way the ball was stopping I thought 260-270 was a decent total."

Tendulkar's captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni was hoping for a few extra runs to defend, but is confident his team are approaching their best form when they need it most: "Before the start of the tournament we said it is very important to peak at the right time, so I think we're ready for the final."