Kolkata: In the last few years he has made more friends in Kolkata than anyone in the Knight Riders team. The charismatic Gautam Gambhir will be eyeing to lead Kolkata Knight Riders for a third IPL title.The Knight Riders captain took his time out to answer a few questions in an exclusive interview to Xtra Time. Here are the excerpts:
1 ) It’s the start of a new season in IPL. Can we see the Knights winning a third title ?
A: Well, that is the most challenging question to answer for any sportsperson. You train, you burn your lungs, you sacrifice your family time — all to win the game of cricket. We all do that, every drop of my blood, every pore of my skin, every heartbeat of mine is about winning and nothing else. I don’t play the game to compete, but to win at all costs.
2) What’s your take on the team this season?
A: Every time I take the field, I don’t look at my team-mates as human beings. I can see panthers in them, out on prowl. So, for me it is not about having the right combination but having the right attitude. I can assure each and every fan of KKR that till the time I am there in the side this side will only play to fight and to win.
3) Due to the Assembly Elections in West Bengal your team will have to play 6 consecutive away matches . Is this a concern for you ?
A: I don’t think so because as winners I’d like my team to be tested under all conditions. It is all very well to perform at home but the real challenge is to be in alien conditions and do well. It’s so much fun when you win despite not being favourites.
4) Except Umesh Yadav & Manish Pandey there are no regular Indian players in your side. Your take ?
A: These are merely information and count little once the games begin. We have the likes of Robin Uthappa, Yusuf Pathan and Piyush Chawla who are experienced despite not being in the Indian team for some time. Apart from that we have young cricketers like Surya Kumar Yadav, Kuldeep and many others. I am not too worried about all this as I think my team has it in them to sail through.
5) After Sunil Narine’s re-modelled action how much effective will he be in IPL ?
A: Well, I am told that he is more effective and dangerous now. I am hoping that the fizz is still there.
6) It’s been quite a while since the domestic season is over .Since then most of the domestic players are out of match practice . Will this be a concern?
A: That is the reason we are are having this camp. I am sure by the time the first game comes about the players will all be in the groove. In any case all these boys are professionals and they will be fighting ready for the first game.
7) Did you watch Andre Russell’s innings against India in World T20. Are you expecting some more fireworks from the Jamaican ?
A: He was brilliant and I was praying that he will get out against India but he didn’t. There is a method to his madness and I am confident he will continue the same form for us too. He is pure gold, a wonderful entertainer. We too are hoping to do the “Champion” dance with him and Sunil.
8) Who do you reckon will give KKR a run for money as far as winning the IPL is concerned?
A: In this format each team is dangerous on their day.