‘I’m only carrying forward Laxman’s good work’

Leading the side in absence of injured Laxman, Gilchrist did not put a foot wrong in the match against Dhoni-led side.

Adam Gilchrist led from the front to help the Deccan Chargers upstaged the fancied Chennai Super Kings but the humble Australian said he was only carrying forward the good work done by regular skipper VVS Laxman.

Leading the side in absence of the injured Laxman, Gilchrist did not put a foot wrong in Tuesday night’s IPL match against the MS Dhoni-led side.

Gilchrist won the toss, marshalled his bowlers well to restrict the opponents to a modest total and then went on to top-score with the bat to guide the side to its second victory. No wonder he walked away with the Man of the Match award.

Story continues below this ad

In the post-match press conference, the Aussie, however, humility personified and said he was enjoying playing under Laxman.

“He (Laxman) has put up a strong foundation and I am only carrying that good work,” Gilchrist said.

Though the win boosted the morale of the side that was at the bottom of the point chart, Gilchrist was not ready to get carried away.

“We are learning from our mistakes. We are not looking at the points table as I know we are at the bottom. We have improved a lot since our Bangalore match. We hope to continue our good showing in Jaipur too,” he said.

Story continues below this ad

“We know we have the talent. But it does not guarantee victory. IPL is of international standard and each player has taken it seriously,” he said.

Gilchrist termed scheduling of matches as tight one.

“We find it very difficult but we have to keep up our momentum despite the tight schedule. One has to keep the process of moving forward.”

The Aussie also praised Shahid Afridi for his all-round performance in Tuesday’s match.

“He fielded very well and took catches. I am sure he has got his momentum since having bowled well and batted in an explosive manner.”