India skipper Sourav Ganguly said on Thursday his team was well-equipped to deal with fast bowling in the upcoming Test series against the West Indies. "We've come here well-prepared to win the Test series," said Ganguly, who had stayed back in India for two days to attend to his ailing wife.

West Indies captain Carl Hooper had earlier said his team would rely more on pace than spin to put pressure on the Indians, known for collapsing against fast bowling.

"I know they are not going to give us spinner-friendly tracks. Why would they?" asked Ganguly. "No team would like to give an advantage to the visiting side. I know we have to play on grassy and pacy pitches because the West Indies are known to rely on their fast bowlers."

Ganguly said his team had the best opportunity to win a Test series outside the subcontinent in 16 years, if it plays up to its potential. " The West Indies are a good side at home, but we are well-prepared too," said Ganguly, who is yet to lead India to an away Test series victory since taking over the captaincy from Sachin Tendulkar in 2000.

Under his leadership, India drew 1-1 in Zimbabwe and then lost in Sri Lanka and South Africa last year. "We'll have to be at our best," said Ganguly. "We've to take care of all aspects of the game if we've to win in the West Indies. Our batting, bowling and fielding will have to be organised."

India, who play five Tests and as many one-day internationals, open their two-month tour with a three-day game against a second-string Guyana Board President's team on Friday. The Indian captain said his squad would have to make the most of the only warm-up match before the first Test, starting at Bourda on April 11.

"It can't be helped if Guyana is playing the Busta final," he said. "We've to get the maximum advantage from this game. We've to get used to the weather and playing conditions. The batsmen will have to spend as much time as possible in the middle."

The Indian skipper, however, conceded the opening and wicket-keeping slots remained a big problem. "We'll play the best option possible," he said.

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd