BENGALURU : Relieved after ending a four-match losing streak, Mumbai Indians’ spin spearhead Harbhajan Singh said head coach Ricky Ponting’s positive attitude and calm demeanour played a huge part in keeping the team together in tough situations.
“He (Ponting) is a very positive guy. The way he played cricket throughout his career. He has been very positive about things whether you win or lose. He always says give your 100 per cent and that’s what the boys are looking to do,” he said after the 18-run win over Royal Challengers Bangalore here.
“The boys had lost four games and yet he stayed calm and composed. He has been fantastic with the team. Moreover, under Ponting’s guidance, many youngsters like Unmukt Chand would help themselves to become a better cricketer, especially in the backdrop of his achievements of winning three world cups for Australia.
“I hope under his guidance lot of youngsters will know how to bat in different situations, which will help them to become better cricketers,” he added.
Apart from Ponting, Mumbai Indians also have Anil Kumble and Sachin Tendulkar in the dressing room as mentors which motivates players, Harbhajan said.
“We also have Anil Kumble, Sachin Tendulkar, lot of wealth we have in the dressing room, which obviously helps each and everyone of us to go out there and do something for the team,” he said.
Asked to rate yesterday’s performance, Harbhajan said he is happy about his performance with both bat and ball since the last two IPL seasons and hopes to make a comeback to the Indian team with consistent performances.
“I am happy that I am among wickets this IPL. Even the previous and before that I did well in the IPL. I was the highest wicket-taking spinner. I am happy the way I am going. I will continue to work hard in the nets. If I continue to bat and bowl well, I am hopeful, I will get a chance to play for India again,” he said. (AGENCIES)