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Journalism of Courage
Yet again, India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni was left fuming at his bowlers’ inability to defend a 300-plus total, that despite the return of Ishant Sharma. He also admitted that there aren’t enough options on the bench and called for the batsmen to put more runs on the board, while hinting that all-rounder Rishi Dhawan will have to wait for his debut. Excerpts:
On a safe score for bowlers
It seems like we have to score more runs to put pressure on the batsman. Back to back 300 is always good, but looking at our bowlers, we need to score 330 or more.
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On his bowlers’ indiscipline
In both games we have given a fair amount of extras. It takes that number of runs off the total. On good wickets it does matter. As far as Ishant is concerned, I think the breeze was flowing in circular motions. I felt that made it slightly difficult for him. I feel even if we cut down the extras we will have to score more runs. There are two options: either score 330 or chase down the score.
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On what went wrong with bowling plans
We played the first game with the best bowling attack. And Ishant was fit for this game and so we thought he will get good bounce here. It’s important to play with the proper bowling set-up. At the same time, you can’t neglect the batting also.
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On playing Rishi Dhawan
It is difficult for someone like him to come in. He may bowl well, but I’m saying it’ll be slightly difficult for him because of the field restrictions. He is not somebody who bowls very quick and at the same time, in the middle overs, you need to bowl a lot of dots. I feel that’s where you have to choose if you’re better off playing with a two-spinner combination. The only option you are left with is to sit out Ashwin, because Jadeja gives you that option with batting. We cannot play with six bowlers, because I think playing six bowlers is a bit of luxury to have in cricket nowadays.
On Rahane
Jinx has improved a lot in his batting. But the wickets are also good here. What is important is to see him when the wickets slow down and he is pushed to play the big shots. When the ball comes on he loves it, and plays very good strokes. We will wait and watch and see what the best position for him is.
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