New Delhi, Feb 19: Being the first cousin of a legend like Brian Lara and younger brother of star all-rounder Dwayne Bravo, Darren Bravo knows that there is bound to be big expectations every time he steps out to bat.
But Bravo, who recently turned 22, is unfazed when asked about Lara's comments that his batting resembles the legendary West Indian.
"It's a great feeling when you hear that coming from Brian. It's a privilege. Brian has always been my role model and I would like to make a name for myself and perform for my country," Bravo told the mediapersons after his team's training session at the Services ground here today.
West Indies play their opening World Cup match against South Africa at Feroze Shah Kotla here on February 24.
Asked about his recent interaction with Lara, Bravo said, "I haven't recently spoken to him. But it will be good to get a call from Brian as it will be a big motivation."
Lara might be his role model as he grew up watching him but talk about the current batsmen ruling world cricket, he terms Sachin Tendulkar as his favourite.
"Sachin Tendulkar is definitely my favourite batsman apart from Brian. I try to learn from the way he goes about his batting," the left-hander, who made his ODI debut against India back in 2009 stated.
In fact, he recollected an interactive session with Ashish Nehra who made a comeback during that series. "Ashish Nehra told me a lot about Indian cricket and it was an interesting conversation."
Like the Waugh and Flower brothers who dominated during the 1990's, Bravo expects that he and older brother Dwayne also do the same for the Caribbeans.
"Dwayne has already established his place in the team. He has travelled all over the world and has played in all conditions. He passes on his valuable experience. I get 100 percent support from him and he always advises me to back my abilities," he said, reflecting the good chemistry he shares with his brother.
But it's not only his brother he turns to for advice. senior batsmen Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan have also helped the youngster when chips are down.
If one thought there would be sibling jealousy as Dwayne, who was with Mumbai Indians for three seasons, being one of the few West Indians to have bagged an IPL contract with CSK, Darren puts speculations to rest.
"My name was there in the auctions and I wasn't picked. I don't feel bad about it as I want to concentrate on doing well for my country. I will take one step at a time to play in IPL," says the youngster who has played three Tests and 13 ODIs for his country. PTI
