I’m still a big-hitter, says Yusuf Pathan

New Delhi: Having played the unusual role of a sheet anchor for KKR this IPL, swashbuckling all-rounder Yusuf Pathan has said his big-hitting skills are intact but he has tweaked his style as a conscious decision to help the team get over the line. 

 

Having accumulated 216 runs in 11 matches so far, Yusuf has played the supporting role to many a Kolkata Knight Riders batsman in this season. A definite drift from the pivotal role he played in the title triumph last year, but Yusuf is content playing as a team man.

 

“There is a conscious effort to stay at the crease and build the innings. The hitting is still very much there but in between I am trying to play sensible cricket. I am putting on a smart approach by looking for singles and twos as well. I am always on the lookout for partnerships and maximise my effort to help the team win as many games,” Yusuf said. 

 

“I am trying to ensure that the team does not have to face many difficulties in the victories. I was dejected with the way I got out against Kings XI Punjab and had I stayed in the middle we could have won more comfortably. So I am laying stress on all these small things. I play my attacking game whenever it is required and also mix it with sensible play and then change gears whenever needed,” he added. 

 

Yusuf insists that it was his personal decision to take the field in a different ‘avatar’ this time around.