Local boy JP Duminy assures he will be able to succeed as the finisher for a top-heavy Mumbai Indians batting order
Local boy JP Duminy assures he will be able to succeed as the finisher for a top-heavy Mumbai Indians batting order
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Mumbai Indians have the players in their ranks to match the best in the Indian Premier League. But they have been just a bit short in crucial moments, which has hurt them very badly.
They returned with just one point from their two games at Kingsmead, for a tally of three points from three games.
They were unfortunate that their game against Rajasthan Royals was washed out last Tuesday and then, against Deccan Chargers they could not close the game while chasing 168 to fall short by 11 runs on Saturday.
Formidable openers
In Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya, they have a formidable opening combination which provides them with explosive starts. But, it also has resulted in their batting order becoming top-heavy.
It's a weakness that plagued them last season too. They lacked a finisher and paid for it dearly when they failed to seal their semi-final berth during a heartbreaking final run.
Their new recruit from South Africa, JP Duminy is hoping to perform that role for Mumbai Indians.
The stylish left-hander batted fluently in the last game against Chargers but once his wicket fell, the Mumbai team lost its way.
"I got out at a critical time against Chargers. It was very disappointing to get so close and lose.
"Hopefully, I can learn from it and will be able to finish it off if I am in a similar situation again," Duminy told MiD DAY on the eve of today's crucial match against Kolkata Knight Riders.
The high from the last game for the Cape Town player was to spend a long time at the crease with one of his heroes Sachin Tendulkar.
"I have batted with him twice now. We had a good partnership in the last game and hopefully there will be many more to come during the tournament.
"Sachin was encouraging and guiding me. After the game he complimented me, 'well played, hard luck'," said Duminy.
Being one of their most expensive buys, the team naturally expects a lot from him. "The pressure of expectations is always there and I am focused to do my best. Hopefully, I will be able to deliver."
Having played quite a lot of South African domestic cricket for Cape Cobras, Duminy also has the advantage of knowing the conditions well.
"I have a decent record in Port Elizabeth, I have always enjoyed playing there.
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