Now it’s the turn of the bowlers

“Ajit and Swapnil will get good bounce on the wicket. It is definitely a good batting wicket but there’s a lot for bowlers too,’’ says Powar. The stocky off-spinner doesn’t deny giving himself and Kulkarni an equal chance to succeed here but maintains that the onus will remain on the pacers. With Agarkar in charge and his confidence on a high after the previous game, Powar might just play second fiddle, as he says. The wiry Mumbai medium-pacer is determined to see his team through to the semis and is looking forward to bowling in the match.

“The last match turned out to be good. I was getting my fitness back and more importantly, was able to deliver when my team wanted. That gave a very good feeling and hope it continues,’” Agarkar said after the day’s play. For the bowler, the transition from playing in South Africa to here has been easy to adjust, as far as form and rhythm are concerned. “I like playing for Mumbai and especially these situations when the team is doing well and looking to be aggressive. “It’s an important match and I’m glad that I’m feeling really fresh.’’ he says.

There is bound to be turn on the pitch once it gets beaten with time and weather and there is certainly hope for the spinning duo. Until then, though, Agarkar has to lead the way.