Off-spinner Harbhajan Singh on Friday said that teammate Kieron Pollard's stunning diving catch to dismiss Michael Hussey was the turning point in Mumbai Indians' eight-run victory over defending champions Chennai Super Kings in a thrilling IPL encounter in Mumbai.
"When we went in to field we thought we were 15-20 odd runs short against such a strong side as Chennai. But Pollard took that great catch off Hussey which I feel was the turning point and Rohit (Sharma) also took a great catch to send back Dhoni. If Hussey and Dhoni were there any target was gettable," said Harbhajan who took five for 18 in four overs.
MI made 164 for four thanks to a 48-ball 87 from Rohit and stopped Chennai Super Kings at 156 for nine to clinch their fourth victory over the holders in eight clashes in the IPL history.
The feisty Indian off-spinner was pleased with his haul but wished such a heap of wickets come his way in Test cricket.
"It's nice to get five wickets as it's difficult at times to take even one wicket. But I wish these five wickets come in my Test cricket stats. That would be nice," he quipped.
Harbhajan described the Wankhede Stadium track the best in India.
"I was calm and composed and I knew if I land the ball there if he (batsman) hits it will be hit, but if he misses I am going to get a wicket. This track has a lot to offer to everyone. This track is the best in India.
"The red soil helps seam bowlers, there's bounce to the spinners and the batsmen too can play shots," he said.
Teammate Rohit, who was not part of the World Cup-winning squad under Dhoni, said he did not want to make any statement to any one but wanted to only enjoy his cricket and perform well whenever an opportunity arises.
"I don't want to make any statement. Yes I missed out on the World Cup berth. But I know I will get opportunity and whenever I get one I should be able to take it. I am happy I got the runs and the team won," he said.
The classy batsman, who hit five sixes and eight fours in his 87, said that as compared to the track in the previous game against Pune Warriors, this one was nice as the ball came on to the bat.
"That track was a bit on the slower side. Here the ball came on nicely to the bat. I wanted to stay till the end," he said.
Harbhajan said it would be nice to win the next game on April 24, Mumbai Indians captain Sachin Tendulkar's birthday, and give the iconic batsman a perfect present.
"Yes, it's Sachin's birthday and it would be nice if we win the game. We will try to do so," he said.
Mumbai play Deccan Chargers in Hyderabad on April 24.
© 2024 Rediff.com -