The Western Australian Cricket Association wicket generally has all of us lining up to bowl.
Though the wicket has slowed down a bit over the last couple of years, it still has enough bounce and carry to excite pace bowlers the world over. Having said that, there is a good chance that I might get a game off. I don’t really want it, but the physio and team management will have the last word on the issue.
The last game against India will remain with me for a long time to come. I had changed my grip at the start of the domestic season, and the change was working because I got a couple of 50s for New South Wales.
During that last over from L Balaji, plenty of thoughts were flooding my mind: should I back my strength and hit straight or should I just try for twos and threes till the last ball. With eight required from the last three balls, I suddenly decided to go back to my old grip. When the ball was bowled I swung, shut my eyes, and prayed. What followed was an unreal feeling, because this was the first time I had turned things round in the last over with my bat.
During the VB Series last year, I had taken the last four wickets when England need 14 runs at a run a ball. My last-over six now ranks right up there with that spell, among my best memories in one-day cricket.
Looking ahead, the Perth game is being viewed as a crucial one by our side since we would like to carry on building momentum till the finals come.
It would be great to bowl at Perth since I know that if I bowl straight and fast, I will do well.
The Indians will be coming from a week-long break, and I expect them to play this game with great intensity even though the finalists have already been decided.
The bowlers, Balaji in particular, will be hurting from the close match in Sydney. It’s going to be a tough game, with a full house at the WACA. It might not be the finals, but it will certainly be a great dress rehearsal before the finale.
- BRETT LEE