New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum will always be remembered for setting the tone for the Indian domestic Twenty20 league with his whirlwind 158 against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the inaugural match in 2008.
On a comeback following a hamstring injury, McCullum might find it difficult to get a start rightaway.
The dashing batsman, however, told Hindustan Times that he will wait for his moment. And that he is still the best player in this format. Excerpts
Many foreigners are doing well in KKR. How sure are you of getting a game?
The flexibility has grown. We have got some outstanding international players sitting out at the moment. From my point of view, yes, I might have to be on the bench but that's the nature of the league --- each player plays under different circumstances and in different situations. You might sit out, but enjoying other people's success is also important.
Has batting in T20 changed with players like you and Gayle looking to bat more overs?
I don't think so. Even now you try and become as aggressive as you can upfront. But the key today is to bat for longer periods of time with a high level of risk and play aggressively at the same time.
How have you seen this tournament evolve?
Things have changed a lot in the last five years. Franchises have become more savvy about what they require for certain conditions and how to make sure you win home games. The marketing and management of teams have changed. Now the teams have become a lot smarter in what they are trying to do in terms of strategy and getting a good mix of players. KKR has also developed in the last few years but at the same time it's a very traditional outfit and extremely well-led as well.
How have you seen this tournament evolve?
Things have changed a lot in the last five years. Franchises have become more savvy about what they require for certain conditions and how to make sure you win home games. The marketing and management of teams have changed. Now the teams have become a lot smarter in what they are trying to do in terms of strategy and getting a good mix of players. KKR has also developed in the last few years but at the same time it's a very traditional outfit and extremely well-led as well.