Xtra Time Web Desk: Lucknow Super Giants stand-in skipper Krunal Pandya on Thursday said he want to lead the team in his own way. The all-rounder from Baroda is open to picking the good things about captaincy from anyone.
“I always played cricket how I wanted to play. I don’t want to imitate anyone, yes, I want to learn good things from everyone but at the same time, I want to be myself. If I be myself, and if I do it my way then the chances of doing well for the team is high. I’ve played cricket hard and in a certain way, and the same thing I apply while being the captain of this team as well,” said Krunal at the jersey launch event in Kolkata.
Krunal was made the captain by LSG management after KL Rahul pulled out from the tournament due to a thigh injury, with five matches remaining in the group stages.
According to Krunal, “Obviously for a team, it is a big loss as a captain and as a player. It is tough, we feel sad for what happened to KL. But at the same time, we must look forward. The entire team are together and giving our best.”
Lucknow is third in the points table with 15 points from 13 games. A win in their final game against KKR on Saturday will see them seal a place in the PlayOffs. On being asked whether Rinku Singh will be a factor or not, Krunal said, “Every player is a big factor at this level. We can’t take anyone lightly. He has been great for KKR, massive boost for them. Rinku will be a big factor. but at this level every player is dangerous, not taking anyone lightly.”
He added, “There is still no qualification for us. Our focus is to play the way Lucknow is known for. We hope we play to our potential and win the game.”
Krunal admitted that both he and Hardik have analysed the game from a leader’s perspective, which has helped them to lead their respective team.
“We discuss cricket a lot, we discuss everything. We have played cricket in a certain way, whether we were leaders or not we have always taken responsibilities, and we have seen this game as a leader.” said Krunal.