Indian all-rounder Yusuf Pathan is at a critical stage of his career after failing to replicate that form consistently at the international level. A revelation in IPLs first season,he capitalised on his early chances with the Indian ODI and T20 teams,but this year,he was left out of the one-day squad after India's disastrous campaign in the Champions Trophy in South Africa. Still in the national T20 squad,Yusuf has come to Mohali for the second match against Sri Lanka well aware that it could perhaps be his last chance to prove his worth at the highest level. In an interview with The Indian Express,Yusuf spoke about his strengths and weaknesses. Excerpts: Big things were expected of you at the international level. Are you disappointed that you havent been able to rise to the occasion this season? • Im quite satisfied with the way my career graph is shaping up. Im still getting opportunities to show my talent. My form hasnt been very good but Im confident of doing well for India in whatever form of cricket I play. But is there any insecurity about your place in the Indian team? • Its always important to come up with match-winning performances. The aim always has to be to get big scores and take lots of wickets. Being an all-rounder,it is my duty to do well in both departments. I am practising hard to maintain that. Youve been criticised for being too rash sometimes. What have been your strengths and weaknesses as a batsman? • I like to play my shots,thats my biggest strength attempting big shots and pulling them off. Some people may say that I dont play according to the situation,but I just believe one should never allow the bowler to dominate. Who are the team mates you take inspiration from? • Yuvraj Singh is a tremendous player,and I look up to him. The way he dominates the bowling when he plays is remarkable. I get inspired just watching him bat. How do you rate your,and Indias,chances against Sri Lanka? • Theyre tough competitors,and you can never tell what strategy they will apply during a match. They cant be taken lightly in T20 and one-day matches. We need to be at our best,and make sure we can do the things they did in that match even better.
