Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India all rounder Deepak Chahar is not looking too far ahead at the upcoming T20 World Cup. Chahar, who scored a match winning 69 runs knock to pull India out of the claws of defeat against Sri India in the 2nd ODI at Colombo on Thursday, said his only target is to prove himself with both bat and ball. “T20 World Cup is far away, I have just one target and it is to prove myself with both bat and ball. The selection is not in my hands, it is not in the hands of any player. We can just perform; I was looking for an opportunity to show my capability with the bat. For the past two years, I did not get a chance to bat for a long period, so it was a good opportunity. I am happy I was able to make use of this chance,” said Deepak during a virtual press conference.
The Chennai Super Kings cricketer said MS Dhoni has influenced him to take the matches deep.
“Watching MS Dhoni close out matches has been a big factor. I have watched him for a long period and I have always seen him finishing matches. When you talk to him, he always tells you to take the game deep. Everyone wants us to win, but when the match goes deep, it is thrilling for everyone involved,” Chahar said.
It was India coach Rahul Dravid’s thinking to send Deepak ahead of the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the last match. Talking about Rahul Dravid’s role, Deepak said, “I have played under his (Dravid) guidance and coaching. There have been times that a situation has arisen of the batsmen being dismissed and me being out there in the middle. I have played good knocks for India A and that is why Rahul sir has the confidence in me. It always helps you when the coach backs you. It is always there at the back of your mind that the coach backs you.”
Lastly, Deepak said that he received a congratulatory message from Team India captain Virat Kohli.
“After the last game, coaches congratulated me from England and even Virat bhai sent a congratulatory message. He told me well played, it obviously feels nice when such big players take note of your performance. It gives the balance to the side if you can come in at number eight and play well with the bat,” signed off Deepak.