Tahir: ‘If the captain backs you spinners will deliver’

IPL 2017 games have thrust slow bowlers into the spotlight. Tahir explains: “Leg-spinners will take wickets in one game, may cost runs in the next two. We need support. If the team is backing you, the captain is backing you, spinners will deliver.”

Imran Tahir has bagged five wickets in two match appearances for RPS so far, three against Mumbai Indians and two against Kings XI Punjab.

Imran Tahir is poised to perform for Rising Pune Supergiant. Delhi Daredevils released him last season and must now be ready to face the music. Asked about facing former teammates in the upcoming fixture, the South African observed: “It will be more challenging for myself facing them. They know my game as much I know theirs after doing so much bowling in the nets.”

Five wickets in two match appearances for RPS this time, three strikes against Mumbai Indians and two against Kings XI Punjab, proves a point. “I am not here to prove anything (to anyone). I wanted to be here to find out why I was not chosen (at the auction),” asserted Tahir. “I respect Pune, respect the team who showed faith in me. I am here to do my job.”

IPL 2017 games have thrust slow bowlers into the spotlight. Tahir explains: “Leg-spinners will take wickets in one game, may cost runs in the next two. We need support. If the team is backing you, the captain is backing you, spinners will deliver.” Aussie youngster Adam Zampa is the second leg-spinner in RPS squad.

Zampa claimed 12 wickets in five games last season for RPS. Steve Smith and Stephen Fleming, captain and coach respectively, played both in one game. Two leg-spinners in one team is exciting,” noted the South African and senior pro, adding: “I have not done what he (Zampa) has done (for RPS) last season, I have not even come close.”