'It was a real challenge to play Akhtar at his best'

Faisalabad: Mahendra Dhoni, who thrashed the Pakistan attack to score a sparkling 148, relishes challenges. Though Shoaib Akhtar tried his best to disturb him with his bouncers, he handled them with smilingly.

Following are the excerpts from an interview:

GULF NEWS: Do you consider this knock as your finest innings?

DHONI: It is special because it happens to be my maiden Test century. Though it was a fine batting wicket, I had gone out to bat after the fall of few quick wickets. The second new ball had also been taken and Pakistan was bowling really well.

How was it to face Akhtar? Did his bouncers disturb you?

It was really a fiery spell. He was bowling consistently at over 148kmph and it was a challenge to play him. So, first I decided to get used to the bounce and pace of the wicket and then I played my shots.

Did you expect Akhtar to bowl a beamer at you?

I would like to believe that it must have slipped out of his hand. I don't think it was intentional.

Did he apologise to you?

Beamers always surprise me (smiles). No, he did not apologise to me. There is nothing personal out in the middle.

How do you look back on your partnership with Pathan?

Both of us have one thing in common. We both look for runs.

Do you agree with your captain that your innings was one of the finest counter-attacks?

I took a calculated risk and went for the shots. I think I played my innings at the right time.

Did you get any special compliments for your innings? Kapil Dev has mentioned that your are his hero?.

That is the most touching message that I have received about my innings.