Sport | Cricket
Interview: Dinesh Mongia
Dinesh Mongia did his best to take India almost to the final. But at the end of it, he was standing lone at the non-striker end while his teammates continued to depart him.
Dinesh Mongia did his best to take India almost to the final.
But at the end of it, he was standing lone at the non-striker end while his teammates continued to depart him.
There were a few people who were of the opinion that Mongia should have guarded the tail-enders from Lee and Co.
Mongia, however, differed.
Excerpts:
Should you have guarded the tail-enders?
I do not think that R.P. Singh and Munaf were capable enough. Moreover, we were still behind by some runs, so we had to go for it as well. I did what I thought right for the team.
How did you feel facing Brett Lee at his best?
I believe he was bowling at 90 miles per hour but I didn't feel it. My main objective was to score runs. I knew I could do so and tried to do it. It would have been great to win the game.
Did you ever think of returning to the team?
I knew I would get one opportunity here, so I promised myself to make most of it. I am happy that I was able to do so.
Did Chappell advise you during the camp?
During the Bangalore camp, Greg told me that he was looking for a cricketer with allround abilities. This encouraged me to work hard. I knew I'll have to bowl a few overs, so I was mentally prepared for that.
Were you tensed while facing the world champions?
I was tension-free. I only knew one thing to score runs to strengthen my case. It was made clear that one has to perform to be in the side so I tried my best to do so. I think, now I am much stronger mentally than a few years ago.
Has County stint changed your approach?
I am more confident and more focused now. My emotions, too, are under control. Yes, success in county cricket made me more confident about my abilities. It helped me to improve a lot, both mentally and the game. Then the camp gave me the opportunity to interact with the team management. I was happy to be a part of the team again.
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