We had a point to prove: Lee
First Published : 19 Feb 2012, 18:17
Last Modified : 19 Feb 2012, 18:17
Brisbane, Feb 19: Brett Lee finished with figures of three for 49 as Australia bundled out India for 178 to win the game, and the table-top position, at The Gabba. After claiming the key wickets of Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma earlier in the innings, the Aussie quick later sent back Vinay Kumar to help beat the visitors by 110 runs.
Excerpts from Lee’s post-match TV interview:
On Australia’s determined performance
We had a few points to prove [and] we did that tonight. We did very well with the bat. Throughout the first 30 overs we consolidated very well we got some runs and towards the end there; Daniel Christian and David Hussey had a great partnership. We had a total that we knew we could defend if we bowled well and we did that.
On whether this win helps erase the memory of the big loss against Sri Lanka
We played poorly, batting, bowling and also fielding [in that game]. Even tonight we missed a few opportunities and chances, myself included. We can take a lot of confidence from this match tonight. We have done a pretty good job.
On whether deliveries like the one that struck Sachin Tendulkar on the head make a bigger impact on the opposition dressing room than a wicket itself
Yes, definitely. It sends a quick message to the dressing room that we mean business. Sometimes [your work] might [help a bowler] get a wicket at the other end, but if you think you have contributed, you have done your job.
On getting his Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir’s wicket
I have bowled to him in the nets a few times [laughs]. Obviously I have plans to work out with him but it was a crucial and key wicket [...].
On the pitch
I think it was a true wicket. I think that we bowled very well; the way we batted, we proved that we can get a huge total. [...] It was good bowling and all the guys [complemented] [Ben] Hilfenhaus; I helped with the way that I bowled. Mitchell Starc and the boys did a good job and Daniel Christian as well.
On the dressing room’s reaction during the Michael Hussey episode where the third umpire pressed the wrong button and then called the batsman back
Couldn’t believe it!
