 | « Back to article | Print this article |
Taylor has scored just 91 runs in seven matches
His form has been a bit of concern but New Zealand captain Ross Taylor is confident that Delhi Daredevils' untested middle-order will "stand up" and be counted when required in the Indian Premier League.
- The IPL's 19th over conundrum
Taylor has not fired at all as he has scored just 91 runs in seven matches, with his highest score being 25.
"The team has batted well but yes, I am out of form," Taylor, who was at the Fortis-Escort hospital for a discussion on injuries, sport psychology and cardiac fitness, said.
'The middle-order will stand up when time comes'
Delhi's top-order led by skipper Virender Sehwag has fired in unison to score in bulk for the side, which is now leading the pack.
Sehwag has 445 runs so far and Kevin Pietersen managed 305 before leaving for national duty.
Apart from Taylor, Delhi's middle-order comprising of Naman Ojha and Yogesh Nagar did not get much overs to showcase their batting prowess but Taylor said the guys will deliver when the time comes.
"It has been discussed and that's what we are here for. The middle-order will stand up when time comes," Taylor said without divulging whether he would have a change in batting-order now that KP has left for England.
'I have batted well, the bowling could have been better'
All-rounder Irfan Pathan said they are aware that perhaps they might have peaked early but is confident that there won't be a drop in intensity in the coming matches.
"It is such a good group with good experience, very smart in the sense that each one of us are aware about our responsibility. We have four international captains in the side and they are there for some reason. We are aware but the coaching staff is keeping a check all the time," Pathan said.
"It's about process and not the result."
The all-rounder was reasonably happy with his own performance. He has scored 93 runs and six wickets so far.
"So far, I have mixed results. I have batted well, the bowling could have been better. I am in good rhythm but now is the time when I need to get more wickets," Pathan said.
Asked if he feels he has cemented his place in the Indian side after a good comeback after playing against the West Indies at home and then in Australia.
"Cementing your place in the side in international cricket is a tough walk. But I know I am headed in good direction. I am confident that only good things will come."
'He is a very dangerous player'
Delhi are set to clash with Kolkata Knight Riders, which features Irfan's elder brother Yusuf, on May 7 at home.
Yusuf has not contributed much with the bat so far and Irfan said he wants his brother to do well but not against Delhi.
"He is a very dangerous player. I want him to do well but after May 7. KKR have won so many matches without his performance, so imagine, if he also starts scoring KKR would be the side to beat," he said.