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        Four years is a long time. It looked only the other day when Ricky Ponting-inspired Australia smashed the daylights out of Sourav Ganguly's men to claim the World Cup on an eminently forgettable day (for the Men in Blue) in Johannesburg.

        The years have rolled on, so to say, as another World Cup has kicked off. As usual, expectations are on a feverish pitch from the die-hard Indian fans, hoping against hope for an encore of 1983.

        Much water has flowed under the bridge since the time Indian cricketers went from no-hopers to runners-up. John Wright, the then coach, is long gone and the Aussie taskmaster Greg Chappell is at the helm. In conjunction with Rahul Dravid, Chappell has pieced together a squad which on paper looks good enough to go all the way.

        In a long-drawn tournament, which will test the skills and character of any outfit, the Indians will have to be consistent. It will be obvious to say that the bunch has been found wanting on that score over the years.

        The losses suffered by the Australians before the mega event took-off has given an open look to the present edition. However, in its pursuit of a record third straight triumph, the Aussies are sure to go hell for leather.

        Now that the Aussies are without the favourite tag, other top notchers have reasons to fancy their chances. The world champs are beatable, seems to be the war cry all over the Caribbean.

        Bunched in the so-called 'group of death', India start off with an encounter against neighbours Bangladesh. Two points is in the asking but complacency could invite trouble. The morale of Bangladesh team is on a high after the warm-up win over the high-flying Kiwis.

        Acknowledging the merit of the opposition, Dravid has said that the Indians will not take it lightly. A winning start in the backdrop of two series wins at home, will give the much needed confidence for tougher battles ahead.

        Going into the opener, Dravid's men look a settled unit but for the uncertainty over Irfan Pathan's form (with the ball) and Virender Sehwag's seemingly unending run drought. The most experienced team in the present World Cup, in terms of matches played and also runs and wickets, will be hoping to make the most.

        However, the key match would be against Sri Lanka, which will throw more light on the confidence level and set the tone and tenor for the needle matches ahead.

        On a mission are Dravid and his faithfuls, striving to regain the coveted cup won by Kapil's Devils 24 years ago. It is indeed a long time.