Jaipur: Delhi Capitals (DC) bowling coach Munaf Patel has underscored the critical importance of bowlers in T20 cricket, asserting that while batters can secure individual matches, tournaments are ultimately decided by disciplined bowling performances.
Addressing the media at the pre-match press conference ahead of the clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Friday, the former Indian pacer highlighted the high-scoring nature of modern T20 games but stressed that sustained success hinges on effective bowling.
The 42-year-old also confirmed that Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc is available and will play his first match of the season against RR on Friday.
Bowlers vs Batters in T20 Cricket
"I always say this: a match can be won by batters, but a tournament is won by bowlers. Because if you see, even yesterday around 250 runs were scored. So obviously, if bowlers bowl well, you can win the tournament. Batters can win you a game, but if you don't bowl well, you cannot win a tournament. That is something I strongly believe in," Patel said.
Approach in Must-Win Situations
In do-or-die scenarios, Patel emphasized the need for a 100 percent approach. "You know that if you lose one or two games, you are out of the tournament. So as a unit, you have to give your 100 percent. Otherwise, it becomes very difficult to survive."
Strategy Against Rajasthan Royals Batters
When asked about plans to counter RR's batting lineup, Patel remained tight-lipped. "If I tell you the strategy now, they will be ready tomorrow. So I cannot tell you the strategy. We will focus on bowling well and executing our plans, but I cannot reveal anything here."
Recent Performances and Mindset
Addressing concerns about the team's inconsistent performances, Patel dismissed any notion of nervousness. "We were not nervous. We were playing with a different approach. We wanted to score more runs, but the wicket was doing a bit. They bowled well and took good catches. It is not like if you lose one game, you become nervous in the next game. That is not cricket. Our approach will remain the same."
He added, "If we bat first, we will try to put up a good total and then defend it. Scoring 250 in one game and 75 in another is not nervousness; that is just how the game goes."
Approach for the Rest of the Season
Patel outlined the team's consistent mindset moving forward. "Our approach will remain the same. We will give our 100 percent and focus on playing good cricket. Whether we bat first or bowl first, the idea is to control the game and minimize mistakes. We will play to win and not think too much about the result. If we play good cricket, the result will take care of itself."
Mitchell Starc's Availability
Confirming the Australian pacer's return, Patel said, "He is available from tomorrow. Our best bowler will definitely play, but the final decision will be taken tomorrow. Him coming back definitely helps. Fast bowlers who may have struggled in the powerplay will get more support."
Possible Changes in Playing XI
Patel indicated minimal changes to the lineup. "There won't be too many changes. We have experienced and performing players in the squad. Unless there is an injury, I don't think there will be many changes. It is not like you lose and then you start changing everything."
