LONDON, Aug 28: West Indian cricket legend Sir Viv Richards has extended support to Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq over ball tampering allegation and said he could understand Pakistan skipper's anger over the issue.

Richards, currently in Bath to promote 2007 World Cricket Cup in West Indies, however, said he could not concur with Inzamam's decision not to take the field after tea break on fourth day.

Richards said: “Every captain looks to defend his players, especially when accused of something unsubstantial.

“There must be very strong reasons why they did not come out. But I do not know whether I would have stayed off the field.

“Obviously it is not my call, but people who matter most to Inzamam felt strongly enough and that is why he took his decision.”

Richards recalled he too had been involved in similar situations in the past.

“We have had altercations in Australia before. Your fast bowler may get a little too aggressive and feel he has been hard done by.

“There are certain ways of doing it but you have to send a message across.”

He said West Indies had excellent prospects in World Cup after recently beating India.

“I have always said West Indies have a chance but a lot of time that was sentimental.

“We have been on ropes for some time but I do see a light at the end of tunnel, particularly after beating India, who are among best one-day sides in the world,” he said.

He believed both England and West Indies had the potential to win World Cup.—Agencies