Ross Taylor feels Central Stags will be the surprise package while sharing his experiences of playing under Anil Kumble.
Q. What was it like scoring your first Test century in only your third Test match?
A. It was quite a special feeling. It was for the first time that I batted in England and I scored a century. It was made altogether more special as my family and friends were present at the venue. Call it a coincidence but my first ODI century also came in my third match. It was a special, special feeling. It was in our home ground and my family and friends were there. It was a warm day and it was a warm feeling. Even though we lost the game and I cramped three to four times, I will always remember that day as special yet funny.
Q. You have played for Central Stags as well. How do you think will they fare in the upcoming Airtel Champions League Twenty20?
A. Quite frankly, Central Stags will be the underdogs because it is their first such experience. They will have a few players who play for the New Zealand national team. On the other hand, no one knows what they will be like. They will also rely on their top order. Stags will also have a fair amount of surprise factor to them which might see them shock the bigger teams. It would be fun to play the Stags in the semis.
Q. What does batting in T20s mean?
A. Well, not many people know what batting in T20 means. First, when it started, not many knew what a good score was, many did not know the techniques. It was a cowboy atmosphere back then. No gameplans, coming out and hitting. Now, T20 is a serious business. Everything is well planned. Whereas, I myself try the relaxed approach as it allows me to have fun and also gets the best out of me.
Q. So, do you have a gameplan for the upcoming ACLT20?
A. Basically, the gameplan depends upon the situation of the game. What is the situation, what position am I going to bat. 4s and 6s play a major part. Many players like to go out and hit hard, whereas I try to settle down and play smartly, even if it means one run at a time. But none of us can deny the fact that 4's and 6's are very important parts of anybody’s game.
Q. How is it playing alongside modern greats like Kumble, Dravid and Kallis?
A. Well, when I first entered the same dressing room as them, I was amazed. One side I had Dravid, the other side Kallis and Kumble in front of me. Now, I am used to this. Dravid, Kallis and Kumble are some of the best to have played this game. But, they are ordinary people with extra ordinary talent. They train very hard. I hope I can make a similar kind of name in cricket.
Q. How is Anil Kumble as a captain?
A. Kumble, as we all know is a world class player. Captaining is a tough job and to control so many big stars under one umbrella is the hardest. Kumble always takes a front foot and leads from the front. He is very very experienced and has very good communication skills. I am very fond of his team talks. He always asks us to go out and enjoy. I am grateful to have a skipper like Kumble.
Q. Who do you spend more time with when not playing cricket?
A. Well, I like to spend my time with Cameron White and Dravid and Murali. I also like spending time with the young Indian lads like Virat and all. They help me with the new language and I am learning some new words, both good and bad.
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