Indians aim to end their losing streak at Margao

Indians are hoping to shrug off their poor record in Margao when they take on Australia in the deciding fifth and final one-day match on Friday. India have never won at this ground having lost to Sri Lanka in 1990 and 1997 with the third match against New Zealand in 1994 washed out due to rain but coach John Wright said it was not on his mind.

"It is always tough to come back against the Australians who will pounce on the slightest of opportunity they get to bounce back and win. However, the Indians are geared up and I am sure they can do well here and break the jinx," Wright told reporters after the team arrived here on Wednesday to a traditional welcome.

Manager Chetan Chauhan said the players were bubbling with confidence despite the loss in Visakhapatnam and determined to put up a good performance. "It has been a close series with fortunes fluctuating every match and we will go all out to win on Friday," he said.

Sourav Ganguly had emerged as the highest scorer the last time India played at this venue and the skipper would be hoping the ground proves lucky for him once again.

Australian coach John Buchanan said his players were slightly tired after the long journey but confident after the good show at Visakhapatnam. "We did pretty well in Visakhapatnam despite the absence of Mark Waugh and I am sure it will be an interesting game on Friday," he said.