After rain & sun, it’s the wind this time for Narain

After the unseasonal showers in Melbourne, energy-sapping heat in Sepang comes the Bahrain sandstorm. At every turn on the F1 circuit there ...

After the unseasonal showers in Melbourne, energy-sapping heat in Sepang comes the Bahrain sandstorm. At every turn on the F1 circuit there is a new challenge lurking. But Narain Karthikeyan is taking everything in his stride. The 2005 season’s No.1 rookie, so far, talking to The Indian Express said, ‘‘It’s a job that’s got to be done whatever be the conditions.’’

That job, according to Narain, is to complete the race. But for that to happen Jordan’s Indian driver has to negotiate the strong winds that blow the sand on the track.

To combat this natural impediment the organisers had come up with a novel solution last year. They sprayed glue on the side of the 10-km track.

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Aware of this plan Narain can’t helping punning as he says, ‘‘I hope they stick to it.’’

But on a more serious note Narain will spend most of his time before the Race Day on Sunday watching the video footage of Michael Schumacher winning the Bahrain GP last year. ‘‘It is better to learn from the best in the business,’’ he says.

When asked if there was any change in the car for this weekend, Narain answers in the negative. ‘‘Almost the same set-up as in Sepang, and probably reworking the aerodynamics owing to the long straights wherein downforce would play an important role,’’ he says

However, Narain indicates that with Bridgestone — Jordan’s tyre suppliers — are eager for a change. It is believed that Bridgestone will be trying out the latest Potenza tyres for this race and this according to Narain will ‘‘suits the relatively smooth surface.’’

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As for his practice, Narain says that by now it has become a routine for him. ‘‘Running around the track takes care of my fitness and gears me up physiological,’’ he says.

Finally the all important question: From 15th to 11th…what is in store at Bahrain? Narain’s aim are modest,

‘‘Come on don’t expect miracles. To even think of challenging the immediate rival ahead is a high ask. I am eager and nose ahead of the rookies.’’

And even if that happens it will be three-out-three for the best new driver of the season.