Amit Mishra vows to take his time before trying to finish the game

Veteran Indian leg-spinner Amit Mishra recently made a comeback in the ODI team and has been the highest wicket-taker in the ongoing India-New Zealand series with 6 wickets. With first-choice spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja having been rested, Mishra has taken over the responsibility to lead the inexperienced spin attack against the formidable Kiwis.

Speaking to ESPNCricinfo about his role in the current ODI unit, the leggie said, “Whenever youngsters come and ask me, I give them advice. It happens during the games too, and in meetings, if I feel I can share something. I don't add any unnecessary pressure, but whenever I have felt the need to offer small tips, I do. I am really enjoying this duty of supporting youngsters.”

Mishra has been a regular member of the Test squad in recent times and seems to be enjoying his time despite getting limited opportunities. The recent appointment of Anil Kumble as Team India’s head coach has been a welcome change for the Haryana spinner as he claims to be learning a lot from the legendary bowler.

I will look to take my time before trying to finish the game : Mishra

“Anil Bhai is very helpful. When I didn't play in a Test match, he would still tell me how to bowl, what pace I need to bowl for a wicket, what field I should bowl to and what are the strengths of the batsman,” said Mishra about how Kumble has been providing him support.

He also explained how other members of the team are benefitting from the coach’s vast experience by stating, “His experience has been helpful not just for me, but for everyone. Despite being a bowler himself, he shares batting tips to the tailenders which will be helpful in crucial matches, as to how to bat when you have a proper batsman around you.”

The 33-year-old was also questioned about his poor shot selection to get out at a crucial stage of the 2nd ODI that the Indians lost by 6 runs.

“It was the requirement of the match. At that time, if I'd played positively against the spinner maybe it would have helped the team but if he hadn't caught we could have finished the game maybe even with two overs to spare. Next time, I will look to take my time before trying to finish the game,” Mishra replied.

The leggie also spoke about how he is impressed with the performance of India’s young bowling attack in the current series and their ability to implement different plans according to the situation.

He said, “ Whenever we need to put pressure, we try and apply it or take wickets. Maybe sometimes all the strategies don't work, but our second line of defence has always been good and it works.”

Talking about how they will look to tackle the rejuvenated New Zealand side in the 3rd ODI at Mohali, Mishra added, “We have two plans all the time, sometimes we go back, reassess and go to Plan B. This time also we will always head into the game with two or three plans. So even if the second doesn't work, the third will."