Won’t make hasty decisions: MSD
First Published : 28 Jan 2012, 16:18
Last Modified : 28 Jan 2012, 10:48
Adelaide, Jan 28: Having sat out the final Test of the four-match series against Australia, India skipper MS Dhoni nonetheless came forward to speak at the post-match presentation which wrapped up a dismal series for the visitors. While lauding Australia for their brilliant performance right through the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Dhoni indicated that the upcoming Twenty20 matches and one-day series would be a completely different ball game.
Excerpts from Dhoni’s interview at the presentation:
On whether he was surprised at how well the Australians had played
They played positive cricket which I felt was very important. When a partnership was needed, a few of their batsmen stepped up and got a big one for the side. They were always able to post more than a par score on the board. When it was needed for their bowlers to bowl consistently in areas, they did. They played brilliantly throughout the series and they always kept up [the momentum].
On the relentless bowling by the Australian bowlers who did not give India an inch
That is what’s important. We all know there comes a phase in Australia once [batsmen] are set and it is a bit difficult for the bowlers. That’s the time when the bowlers have to be consistent with their line. It’s not about fancying [themselves] too much or having too many variations. That’s what the Australians did; they kept bowling in the same areas and never gave us easy boundaries. That makes it a bit difficult because once you are set as a batsman, you always want to get boundaries [as] that really gets you going and gets you into a good space.
On whether changes were expected after eight consecutive Test-match losses abroad
We will have to wait and watch because the next Test series that we play is in September [2012]. We have plenty of time to think about it. We know the reasons [and] what went wrong for us in England and also in Australia. There is plenty of time. We don’t want to make [hasty] decisions.
On the upcoming T20Is and ODIs
If you see the squad [for the ODIs and the T20Is], it’s a completely different side [as] compared to the one in the longer format. There are plenty of players who are quick and who love their fielding. We really enjoy fielding when it comes to ODIs and it’s good exposure for the youngsters, playing international cricket. Plying hundred-odd ODIs is a good experience to have behind you whenever you get to make your Test debut.
