Ahmedabad, March 24: After much debate about his inclusion in the playing XI, Suresh Raina played a critical knock of 34 not out to take India to victory alongside Yuvraj Singh in the big quarter-final against Australia.

After helping India book a berth in the World Cup semi-final against Pakistan, a thrilled Raina spoke to the media.

Excerpts from the conversation

On having justified his selection into the playing XI

I knew whenever I got the chance I would do well. It is time to show what I am [made of] and thanks to Gary [Kirsten] - I think he gave me the chance. I knew whenever I get the chance, I will do my best for Team India.

On the calmness that he displayed coming in to bat after MS Dhoni’s departure

When I was sitting in the dressing room, Sachin [Tendulkar] came up to me and he just give me a high five. This was the time when Sachin was expecting me to do well in this game and I was thinking if I get a chance in the middle overs, definitely I will do my best.

On Yuvraj Singh’s advice to him during their partnership

He was just telling me, “You have to play straight, no need to play any shot. Whenever you get the ball, just play your natural game.”

On whether the atmosphere in the stadium was a first for him

To be honest, I think when you play for India in the World Cup, I think it’s a different feeling. By the grace of God I am in this Indian team and I hope I go on.

On India being close to winning the World Cup

It’s a two game [journey] but as a team [there’s still a] lot of hard work [left to do]. I think the bowlers did a great job today. We did really well today and I think now we are playing against Pakistan. A lot of [fans] wanted to come for the game and I hope we will do well in the coming game also.