India’s lead spinner Pragyan Ojha on Friday expressed confidence that the home team batsmen can pull off a draw by performing well in the second innings of the third Test here. Following are excerpts of comments he made in the media conference.
On the chances of India saving the match
The wicket is not doing much. It is a straight wicket and the outfield is fast. We have a good record on this wicket. Our guys are quite confident of batting well on this wicket and save the match.
On India’s bowling performance
It was better than yesterday. I think the wicket was not doing much. I had to bowl to my field without giving them easy runs. Yesterday I was trying a bit more for early wickets. Then I spoke to myself that I should not be giving easy runs. It is not about getting defensive, it is just about not giving easy boundary balls.
On the role of bowling coach Joe Dawes
He always keeps working. But you to need to analyse your own game. Joe talks about the angles and variation with the crease. He is good enough.
On whether India lacks a spin coach
We have got Duncan (Fletcher). We have got senior players like Dhoni and Harbhajan. It’s a team game.
On the team’s plan for Saturday
First session would be very important. If we get one or two early wickets, the tail will open out and we can pack them up. For batting, it’s a very good wicket.
On Monty Panesar’s bowling
He has done quite well. In the first game he got 11, this time he has four. Ashwin and I are also trying hard. We have got wickets, but it is just that we are not striking regularly. But we are putting in tremendous amout of effort.
On his role as the lead spinner for India
It really does not matter. I am only focussing on winning games for India.