We believe in giving constructive criticism to youngsters, says Gilles skipper Sathish

Chepauk Super Gillies captain R Sathish spoke exclusively to the India Cements TN Premier League website on Saturday, after his team’s 55-run win against Madurai Super Giants at the NPR College Ground at Natham. Excerpts from the interview:

On captaincy and his role as a finisher

That is what I am assigned to do and that is what I have been doing for the past few days. Also, I am not under any kind of pressure. It didn’t work out for a couple of games, so I was promoted up the order. I had to take the responsibility of the team as well as start finishing off games. The lack of finishing from my part cost us a few games though. I also had a good chat with Hemang Badani and he gave me the confidence to do well. Even the youngsters came up to me and said: ‘Anna, if you stay till the last over, we will get a good score.’ That is what I exactly did!

On inputs from Hemang Badani

Hemang Bhai gave us a lot of confidence because he believed in our ability and skills. He was positive and knew it was just a matter of time (for us to start winning). The loss upfront was really bad as we had a good start, but later lost wickets in a flurry. We had a different plan in mind this time around and fortunately it worked!

Did you want to shuffle the batting order in the midst of the tournament?

No. I had confidence in my boys, as we are a unit who back each other. It is not like if a guy doesn’t perform, he is out of the team. We believe in our team and make sure of giving them the right opportunity, at the right time and place.

On advice to youngsters who spill a catch or bowl poorly

We say: ‘Don’t worry about giving too many runs, we will get them back’. We assure them and only give positive and constructive criticism, so it becomes much easier for us to chip in as well.

On the team peaking at the right moment

I won’t say we are peaking at the right time because we are just playing our normal game. I hope the best is yet to come and we want to perform better.

On the experience of playing in the districts

It is fantastic to be a part of the India Cements TN Premier League. Also, kudos to Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) for this wonderful initiative, as it promotes cricketers from various districts. It is a great opportunity and not many states in India have this kind of league. The fans over here make you feel like you are in some foreign country.