When he took the field in the 84th minute in the France-Switzerland match on Tuesday, Vikash Dhorasoo became the first player of Indian parentage to play in World Cup finals. The midfielder also nearly won the match for his team when his low drive missed the target by a whisker in the dying minutes.

Born in Mauritius to Indian parents, Vikash -- considered coach Raymond Domenech's favourite -- came on as a replacement for Sylvain Wiltord.

Vikash had to take off his ring before making his World Cup finals debut sporting the number eight jersy and he promptly passed the first ball he received to team mate Thierry Henry [Images], who fumbled and eventually lost possession.

Also Read The only Indian at the World Cup The message of peace in sand Is Thierry Henry the best? Swiss, French draw: Blame the pitch!

Playing the central midfielder's role, Vikash almost scored for his side two minutes before the hooter. A Louis Saha chest-down, off a Zinedine Zidane [Images] pass, reached him inside the box but Vikash's well-timed shot missed the far post as coach Domenech grimaced in disappointment in the sidelines.

Poor finishing saw Vikash's side being held to a goalless draw by Switzerland [Images].

The 32-year-old Paris Saint Germain midfielder was in the 2002 World Cup squad as well but Vikash had to wait for another four years before making his debut.