Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)’s all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan believes picking at the right moment is the key to winning the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Meanwhile, Hyderabad suffered their first defeat after winning three games in a row. The team from Hyderabad fell on the other side of Gayle storm, as the Universe Boss struck the first hundred of this IPL.
However, Shakib argued it is crucial for teams to well in the latter stages to win the tournament.
Read More – Most Sixes Innings in IPL 2014
“The teams which won the Trophy so far are those which have most of their last games. Those games are important for that is when the players tend to get tired, face fatigue and other factors. They should be mentally and physically much stronger to deal such situations,” Shakib said to Sportstar.
Batting is not a concern
The Sunrisers failed to chase down Kings XI Punjab’s target of 194 which raised questions on their batting order.
However, Shakib dismissed all those claims and said they held on their own even after losing Shikhar Dhawan, who sustained an injury.
“I don’t think batting is a concern for us. If we bat well and back up our very good bowling attack, we are a very difficult side to beat,” said Shakib.
Must Read – Most Fifties in IPL 2014
Bowling with Rashid Khan
The left-arm spinner admitted he is trying to improve and forge a partnership with Rashid Khan. He also lauded coach Tom Moody and bowling coach, Muttiah Muralitharan, as they are helping him to grow.
“We are hoping to improve our skills, and I am pleased with the way the head coach Tom Moody and bowling coach Murali have been backing me and helping me a lot,” he said.
Meanwhile, SRH will take on the inform Chennai Super Kings, who have quality players in their ranks. He pointed that players like Shane Watson can take the game away, as Chris Gayle did in the last match.
Must Read – Most Centuries in IPL 2014
“They have been playing for quite a few years now. We have to play our best cricket even while trying to improve upon in some areas,” he said when asked whether his team fears another assault from Shane Watson of CSK tomorrow like Chris Gayle took the game away the previous night,” Shakib concluded.
Also read: Batsman better against yorkers, reckons Heath Streak