The hard-hitting Moises Henriques is keen to become a big impact player for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League even while hoping that he will get more chances to help the team’s cause.
The 28-year-old Henriques, who led Sydney Sixers to the Big Bash final last month, says that he is in the mood to make most of the opportunities that come his way in this edition.
“You should be ready to grab with both hands the chances that come your way. It is not going to be easy but the fact that you are up against some fantastic teams and individuals in the IPL should be a huge motivating factor,” he told The Hindu on Wednesday. “I got chances in three or four games last season. Hoping to get more chances this time around,” he added.
Referring to his successful stint as captain of Sydney Sixers, Henriques is candid enough to point out that the performances (he was the top-scorer in the final against the eventual champion Perth Scorchers with 57-ball 77) back home will not have anything to do in the IPL.
Different conditions“It is hard to take that into the IPL for the conditions are different and difficult, so are the players and the whole ambience too. You have to change gears as quickly as possible. I am ready to challenge myself in a big way,” he said.
On Sunrisers’ strong points, the New South Wales player who interestingly played for four IPL franchisees earlier (Delhi Daredevils, Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru), said that the top order in batting and the solid bowling department make the SRH a very balanced outfit. “I must say the Indian pacers Bhuvi, Ishant, Praveen are really good. And we have two world-class internationals Steyn and Boult,” he added.
Henriques, who played just three Tests in 2013 and six ODIs for Australia, said no player could rest on what he had achieved in the past. “Personally, I just to want to keep playing as many games as possible and keep improving,” he said.
Interestingly, the Aussie speedster Brett Lee bid adieu from Twenty20 cricket after the Big Bash final. Referring to that, Henriques said that it was an unforgettable feeling to lead such a team with such great player. “I think I have some stories to tell to my grandchildren later on about that amazing experience. It is a huge honour to play alongside such great cricketers,” he said.
What exactly is Henriques looking for? “To be part of the winning moments in the IPL. I hope the Sunrisers will script those in this edition and I am more than keen to contribute in my own way,” said the NSW allrounder trying to find his own place in the star-studded line-up of Sunrisers.
