While India\u2019s top-order batters have flourished, their new-ball bowling attack has floundered, with the side taking only one scalp in the opening 10 overs of the first two matches in Thiruvananthapuram and Guwahati while conceding 177 runs in the mandatory power-play phase.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In Guwahati, on a placid pitch, India gave away 405 runs, thus raising concerns over the performances of back-up pacers in the run-up to the 2027 Men\u2019s ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cAs a bowling unit, yes, we would like to do better and try to stop the West Indies to a lower total. If you see, that wicket was also good, and the ground\u2019s dimensions on one side were small. Yes, we leaked more runs and could have gone with better plans. But bounce will be more in South Africa, and it will help the fast bowlers there,\u201d said Dhir in the pre-match press conference.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhir is set for a memorable homecoming on Saturday, as New Chandigarh is set to host its maiden men\u2019s ODI. Addressing media queries regarding his specific role within the playing XI, Dhir revealed that the team management has given him complete clarity on his responsibilities.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe communication was very simple - I will be batting at number six and seven, where I have played in IPL. Another crucial role of mine is also to be the fifth and sixth bowler, so that the team could utilise me there, and that\u2019s been the communication so far,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
On adjusting to batting in the lower-middle order, Dhir pointed out that the transition is primarily a mental adjustment rather than a technical overhaul. \u201cI guess there are not many technical changes. You can make mental changes, as there\u2019s less time to bat at number six or seven.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cBut I have had the experience of playing in the IPL at number seven last season. It is not new for me & it is not difficult for me. I am suitable there or at the top with my technique,\u201d Dhir explained.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dispelling perceptions that he is a part-time option with the ball, Dhir clarified that the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League had previously led to him not getting any overs to roll his arm over.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI had been bowling from the start. My bowling hasn\u2019t been seen much due to the Impact Player rule in the IPL. I am not required there that much, but I do bowl regularly for my state. But since I have come into the IPL, I have worked a little more on my bowling, especially while being in the Mumbai Indians camp, as they have helped me a lot,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on the opportunity to represent the country on his home ground, Dhir expressed gratitude for this occasion in his life. \u201cI had no idea that I would be picked in the Indian team and would play a match at my home ground. I have played a lot here and know it well. After the Sher-e-Punjab tournament, I had no idea about getting a call-up to the Indian team. It is a great feeling full of gratitude, and I always want to give my best.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhir also provided an early assessment of the surface at the venue. \u201cI will keep it simple. I will think that I have extra pressure and responsibility to do well here. I will do what I have been doing. I haven't seen the wicket yet, and we can\u2019t assess and prepare accordingly. If it's prepared as per what I know, it will be a good total of 290-300.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Asked about his batting approach during pressure situations, Dhir stressed the importance of remaining adaptable. \u201cThe plan is simple - I will not go in with a fixed plan if I get a chance to bat. It depends on the situation and the demand of the team. So, as per that, I will plan my batting innings in the game.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhir also highlighted the valuable bowling inputs he has received from senior teammate Ravindra Jadeja. \u201cI have spoken to Jaddu bhai. He has given me simple plans to bowl according to the batsman. Like, I can bowl in an attacking manner if I have to get wickets, or if I have to contain the batsman, then I can have simple lines to bowl to them.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Asked about his batting approach during pressure situations, Dhir stressed the importance of remaining adaptable. \u201cThe plan is simple - I will not go in with a fixed plan if I get a chance to bat. It depends on the situation and the demand of the team. So, as per that, I will plan my batting innings in the game.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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