It is important for stars to remember that it was the performance in these games that brought them to the limelight in the first place. And where would they be if they had not enjoyed the backing of their state association in the formative years? asks Partab Ramchand

With so many gifted youngsters ready to step in as they have proved over the last couple of years, it will be interesting to see how the vastly experienced Dravid responds to the challenge, asks the veteran journalist.

It was an eventful year for Team India both at home and abroad. Partab Ramchand lists the ten best performances by Indian cricketers - and the team - during 2008 in Tests and ODIs.

On the field, the very fact that the Indian team at the end of the year is ranked No 2 in the Test ratings and joint second with South Africa in the ODI ratings underlines the fact that it was a successful year, feels the veteran journalist.

One would not normally associate the word pathetic with the Australians but the showing at Perth was just that. If the batting was shaky the bowling was worse, says Partab Ramchand.

In any event, it was always on the cards that Dravid would not be axed even before his century at Mohali, keeping in mind that the next couple of series were going to be tough contests, writes the veteran journalist.

With their impressive showing particularly in recent Tests, Sehwag and Gambhir are not only breaking this tradition but also could well emerge as among the most successful left hand right hand pairings in Test history, observes Partab.

In the last eight and a half years, they have lost one series – to Australia in 2004 – and when they defeat the top ranked side in the world by a 2-0 margin in a four Test series it is clear that no other visiting team has a chance, writes Partab Ramchand.

Despite continually impressing for Middlesex, Kartik is struggling for recognition from Indian selectors who picked three frontline spinners for the first Test against England at Chennai, observes the veteran journalist.

Overall there is little doubt that Pietersen has emerged as something more than a mere sporting idol, writes Partab Ramchand.