West Indies captain Brian Lara. AFP PHOTO

"It's important that we get the best team out there. We don't want to have a hiccup at this time.

"We did that in Malaysia, where we experimented in the game before the final, and lost momentum," he said referring to last month's tri-nation series in Kuala Lumpur.

Lara batted at number nine in that game and the West Indies lost the inconsequential final league match against India, before being hammered in the final by Australia.

"I think we've got the batting line-up that we want, and what we need now is to continue winning games and seeing the likes of (Chris) Gayle, or maybe (Shivnarine) Chanderpaul, getting another hundred."

On Thursday, Chanderpaul and Sarwan scored half centuries to lead the holders to an exciting three-wicket victory over India for a semi-final berth.

England, meanwhile, have lost both their previous matches against India and Australia and are out of the reckoning.

"It was always going to be difficult for them, with the likes of (Marcus) Trescothick and (Michael) Vaughan missing. They're not at full strength," he said.

But he added he was sure England would be playing for pride.

"England have got bigger things to worry about now, the Ashes. I wish them well for that."

Lara braved back spasms to play against India, despite not having taken the field after scoring 71 against Australia.

"If I'm fitter than I was (against India), I'll definitely play. It's important that we get the best team out there," he said.