The defeat of Pakistan put a smile on Stewart's face
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Alec Stewart believes England are ready to make a major impact on the World Cup after passing what he describes as their biggest test in four years.
England gave themselves a fighting chance of making the Super Six stage with victory over Pakistan on Sunday.
"It was probably the biggest game England have had since the last World Cup and it was a huge win," Stewart told BBC Sport.
"The boys were really up for the game and played accordingly.
"We've now got a very big game coming up against India on Wednesday and if we win that then there's every chance we'll qualify for the next stage."
England are well versed on their Durban opponents, having played them 11 times in the last 12 months.
India hold a slight edge over England in that time, a record which includes victory in last year's NatWest Series final at Lord's.
Stewart respects Tendulkar and his team-mates
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"We saw what a fine side India can be last summer at home, where they knocked 300-plus off and beat us in the final," the veteran wicket-keeper said.
"They've got the best player in the world in Sachin Tendulkar.
"And they've got other dangerous players like Sehwag, Ganguly and Dravid.
"It's going to be a difficult game but if we play like we did against Pakistan then we'll be in a very good position."
Stewart admitted he was hugely impressed by young paceman James Anderson, whose four wickets against Pakistan helped seal victory.
"We got 30 less runs than we probably should have got, but when we bowled the ball swung and James Anderson bowled outstandingly well," he said.
"He's been a big find. I hadn't seen him play at all until he turned up in Australia.
"He obvioulsy learnt well at the Academy and he keeps continuing to improve game by game."
At 20 years of age Anderson is expected to feature prominently in England's long-term plans, but speculation over Stewart's future persists.
It is thought the 39-year-old will retire after the World Cup, but Stewart hinted that such reports might be premature.
"Don't always believe the grapevine," Stewart added.
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