What’s the story?
Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins has heaped praise on Delhi Daredevils skipper Zaheer Khan, stating that he has enjoyed playing under the leadership of the 38-year-old and wished he could take him along with him to Australia.
“I’m just really enjoying playing with him. It’s not often you get a bowler as a captain and especially such an experienced one.
“I wish I could bring (Zaheer Khan) back to Australia with me,” he added.
In case you didn’t know...
Despite having retired from the game in late 2015, Zaheer has continued to lead the Delhi-based franchise in the last two seasons. The 2011 World Cup winner has impressed one and all with the way he has led a young side, comprising of a number of rising Indian players, hoping to make an impression on the IPL stage and has received widespread praise for his captaincy skills.
The heart of the matter
Cummins further added that Zaheer gave him simple advice like following what he thought was best for that particular situation and bowling that delivery. He also added that Zaheer told him not worry about giving away fours and sixes and bowl with an uncluttered mind.
The Daredevils, despite the loss at the hands of the Kolkata Knight Riders on Monday, remained in fourth place on the points table and will next face the Sunrisers Hyderabad away from home on Thursday.
They almost pulled off the win against the Knight Riders on Monday, but Manish Pandey held his nerve in the final over of the innings and helped his side cross the line with a ball to spare.
What’s next?
2017 so far has been a good year for Cummins, who made a Test comeback after six years in the series against India in Ranchi and has fo far in the IPL, picked up 7 wickets in 4 matches this season. Zaheer and the rest of the franchise will hope that the Australian remains injury free for a large duration of the season and provides them with wickets at regular intervals.
Author’s take
It is heartening to see an overseas professional speak so highly of an Indian legend, like the way Cummins has. Usually, in the IPL, one has seen young Indian cricketers heap praise on the overseas professionals, but in this case, it has been the opposite and it is great to see that.
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