The Hindu : Sport / Cricket : Togetherness did the trick: Raju

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Friday, Sep 28, 2007
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Togetherness did the trick: Raju

Principal Correspondent

HYDERABAD: What was the mantra behind Mahendra Singh Doni team’s stunning success in the inaugural Twenty-20 World Cup?

Togetherness, ability to adapt to any given crisis and great fielding, says Venkatapathi Raju, National selector and part of the touring selection committee member in South Africa.

“It has been a wonderful experience. Winning the inaugural edition is something we should cherish for a long time to come,” was Raju’s reaction immediately on arrival

“Every moment on the tour was special. For the camaraderie, the way the players responded to every suggestion. It was a strategy to bat first given the option and it clicked,” says Raju.

Rising to the occasion

“The beauty of the campaign was the way one or the other player rose to the occasion to guide the team through. Fielding made a huge difference,” Raju explained.

“This World Cup also proved that the spinners — Harbhajan Singh, Daniel Vettori, Shahid Afridi — have a big role even in this format,” he stressed.

“The discussions were always healthy and everyone present knew their job. Even before the final against Pakistan when Yousuf Pathan’s cropped up for inclusion, it was spontaneously accepted because of the nature of the pitch and his hard-hitting ability,” recalls Raju.

No tension

“There was no tension before the final. The philosophy right through was just go out there, enjoy the match giving your best, never give up and most importantly not bother about the result,” says the genial Hyderabadi.

“Dhoni was remarkable as captain. A big source of inspiration for the young cricketers,” Raju pointed out.

What was the most enjoyable moment during the final? “Every moment of the classic encounter!”

Well, after attending the civic reception to the Indian team in Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday, Raju should not be faulted if he is tempted to feel whether he doesn’t deserve some of those incentives being showered on the victorious contingent!

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