"I'm looking forward to playing Chennai" - Irfan Pathan

07 May, 2009 | KXIP NEWS SERVICE

How have you been enjoying in South Africa so far?

It’s been different compared to India. You can’t compare… the crowd back home is different but what we have seen in South Africa has been great. They have done their best in every way considering the short notice they have had and we appreciate it. I am enjoying it immensely. It’s been great being with the team as well. We shouldn’t have lost some of the games we did, but that happens!

Are you surprised with the amount of support KXIP has received?

It feels nice… there are a lot of cute looking guys in the team, so that’s not surprising! To be honest, it does feel good. When you start playing well, you get support also and we are witnessing this.

Speaking of fans for guys, you seem to have a posse of female fans wherever you go…

(Laughing) Obviously… I’d be lying if I said it didn’t feel good… but the main reason is that you should be playing well. I believe in being nice to the fans… win or lose. It is very important. These are small things… they don’t expect too much. Maybe an autograph or a photo… speak nicely to them and they are happy.

Playing in a team with players from different countries.You have experience, but how do you see the young players handling this?

In our team the chemistry between players has been very good. The Sri Lankan players for example keep helping the young ones and in general, all the players are getting along very well. Personally, I enjoy being with the young guys… they are fun. It can be intimidating for some, but the senior players are ensuring that everyone feels part of the group. It’s a great opportunity for all… as senior players, we need to set an example they can follow. So it is enjoyable and a responsibility as well. They remind me of how I was when I was their age… it’s nice.

You must be happy with your form this series…

Nothing comes easy. If you are not going to work hard, results are not going to come. I knew I needed to bowl and I had an injury worry too. So I hit the nets and continue to practice to make sure I am on top of my game. There is a lot of competition for places so hard work is the only option.

I am looking forward to being a complete player. I am enjoying the number six position because it offers me a chance to play different situations. I have been working on my batting as well and I am at a stage where I am looking to go to the next level.

Of all the teams, which has been the toughest one to beat so far?

I really think Chennai would be the team to beat. All the teams are equal with some minor differences. But generally, I think Chennai would be hard to beat and I’m looking forward to playing against them.

How far do you see KXIP going?

We definitely have what it takes to win. Our wins have been great and we need to keep looking at that to move forward. Our losses have been learning experiences and we need to avoid the mistakes we made. We are certainly in with a chance.