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‘I have my own identity now’

S. Dinakar

Chennai: Yusuf Pathan’s straight-hitting has been awesome in the Indian Premier League.

The IPL’s big-hitting sensation is modest about his attributes. “God gave me the ability to hit the ball long and hard. I am thankful to him,” he told The Hindu here on Thursday.

He has notched up 287 runs in 11 IPL games at a stunning strike rate of 180.50.

No sympathy

He laughs at the possibility of facing younger brother Irfan Pathan in the IPL final. “There will be no sympathy on the field of play,” he warns.

Yusuf remembers the days of struggle with Irfan. “We used to travel around 15 km a day in Vadodara for practice in the same bicycle. We used to toss about who would be the pillion. I miss those days,” he mulls.

The brothers are contrasting personalities. “Irfan is a lively character, is full of pranks and jokes. I take my time to open out,” says Yusuf.

Happily, Yusuf has emerged from Irfan’s shadow. “I am extremely happy for Irfan’s successes. But I have my own identity now. They don’t call me Irfan’s brother any more,” says Yusuf.

Yusuf reveals a little more about himself. “Basically, I am a cool person. Do not think too far ahead and put pressure on myself. I enjoy my cricket,” he says.

Yusuf recalls inspirational captain Shane Warne’s advice. “He told me, ‘You are extremely good between long-off and long-on. Strike in that area. Do not try fancy shots square off the pitch.’”

He is all admiration for Warne’s cricketing acumen. “He talks to you about what the batsman could do with the next delivery. It’s basically about the mind. He’s great with the mind.”

All-rounder

Yusuf is working on a quicker variety of off-spin, from a high-arm action. “I want to be called an all-rounder. Last season, I had a ten-wicket match haul and a hundred against Bengal in Ranji Trophy.”

He shifts his attention to his IPL opening partner Graeme Smith. “He is such a big cricketer, the South African captain, but has no airs about him. We have jelled well as a left-right combination. We are both attacking players. He keeps instilling me with self belief.” Yusuf has inflicted damage down the order as well.

Yusuf says he is not satisfied yet. That’s not good news for the bowlers.

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