21 April,2009 03:58 PM IST | | IANS
South Africa's latest batting sensation Jean Paul Duminy said that playing under his childhood heroes Jonty Rhodes and Shaun Pollock in the Mumbai Indians team has been a dream come true in his debut season in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Ever since Duminy has joined the Mumbai Indians team he has been the cynosure of all eyes. Working with fielding coach Rhodes and head mentor and advisor Pollock, Duminy is excited to be with his two idols.
"I feel privileged to be a part of this - every moment I am in awe - I mean I found myself doing a television shoot with Jonty Rhodes and Shaun Pollock last week - those guys were my heroes growing up and now I am playing under their guidance.
"It is amazing," said the 25-year-old, who was bought by Mumbai Indians for a whopping $950,000.
When compared to the likes of Rhodes and Herschelle Gibbs for his brilliant fielding skills, Duminy said: "Whew! Those guys were my heroes when I was growing up! I absolutely love batting but there is also something quite special about taking a catch and seeing the batsman head back to the change-room. I hope that I can excel in both departments."
Duminy, who is rated as one of the best players to watch out for, said that he wants to go out and give his best.
"Rankings, ratings and statistics are nice to know but they should never really affect a professional sportsman. I am humbled by the accolades, but I still have a lot to learn. So I really will just go out there and aim to do my very best," he said.
On IPL being played in his country, Duminy said: "Nothing compares to this though! The hype, the excitement, the anticipation, the enthusiasm of all those involved. I have never experienced anything like this. To have such an incredible line up of players in one tournament! Its just amazing."
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