We could have spent the last two evenings number-crunching and obsessing about various scenarios. However, it's best to keep it simple and we are aiming not merely at consolidating our play-offs spot, but also making it to the top-two of the competition. This gives us, as commentators like to
call, 'another bite at the cherry' and will guarantee us a berth in the Champions League.
More importantly, it gives us momentum going into the play-offs. I was very satisfied with the way the boys approached the game against Pune. It was a critical game, but we succeeded in playing for the sake of winning rather than for making progress on the points table. That will be my goal on Sunday as well. Very often, there is a danger of just jockeying for positions. The aim must always be to win because the points table looks after itself if you are on the right side of the result.
Raring to go
Our team is raring to go and while there is talk about the Mumbai Indians being under some pressure, I am not worried about their mindset. Mumbai are a quality side and my aim will be to ensure that we are at our best when we take them on. I was also very happy with my performance in the last game. My role was to stay there till the end and I was thrilled to accomplish it. Opening is always a bonus but it is the team that is paramount.
This is our last home game and that is a huge incentive for the team to do well. I have been overwhelmed by the affection I have received everywhere I have gone. International itinerary permitting, I would love to come here for the Pujas and be part of the festivities. In a matter of six weeks, Kolkata has converted me from a Dilliwala to a Bengali boy. It's been a season of poriborton for me!
Gameplan