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.

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.