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Journalism of Courage
Unraveling the enigma that is Munaf Patel could be difficult, if not impossible. He certainly doesn8217;t co-operate and questions hurled at him elicit monosyllabic replies. If at all, the puzzle only becomes more complex, leaving one no wiser than before.
Even the news that he8217;s back in the Indian squad for the forthcoming three-Test series against Sri Lanka doesn8217;t excite him much 8212; the Ikhar lad has been in and out of the team so often, it seems he8217;s become blaseacute; about it.
8220;When I was not picked, I thought they8217;d kept me as a cover for an unforeseen eventuality. But that was not to be Manpreet Gony was drafted in after Sreesanth pulled out due to injury. Anyway, I am happy with whatever I have achieved,8221; he says.
The IPL provided a platform where Munaf rediscovered himself. Under captain Shane Warne and team psychologist Jeremy Snape, he flourished. He grew in confidence match after match and started pitching the ball in the corridor of uncertainty.
8220;Warne is a very positive captain. He set the field as per my wishes. Snape8217;s contribution to the team was also huge,8221; Munaf says, but insists that at the end of the day, his efforts alone bore fruits. But hasn8217;t he been a bit too inconsistent in the past 8212; sublime one day, and pedestrian on another? 8220;Well, if you bowl well everyday, you will become the best,8221; he snaps.
Not just his performance, other factors too have gone against him. Accusations that he hides injuries did not help his cause. And the national selectors seemed to have 8220;lost faith8221; in him. 8220;People will say whatever they want to. It doesn8217;t make any difference to me. My job is to work hard and perform,8221; says Munaf, before bringing the discussion to an end by adding: 8220;Write whatever you want to. I have no problem.8221;
Aloof, cold and impossible to communicate to 8212; call him whatever, it has ceased to matter to Munaf. 8220;Main jaisa bhi hun thik hun. Mujhe alag rehna pasand hai toh usme problem kya hai? I am what I am. I like to remain aloof so where8217;s the problem? Everyone is different, after all,8221; he says.
