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Opener's slot yet to be mine: Jaffer

There is still a long way to go... its too early to say my Nagpur knock will cement me as an opener," the 28-year-old said.

Published on: Mar 09, 2006 08:03 PM IST
None | By , Mohali
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Wasim Jaffer's fine century in his comeback innings could have led to the notion that India's opening woes are finally over but the batsman himself is realistic, knowing well that only consistency will guarantee him a permanent place at the top of the order.

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HT Image

"To say that my knock in Nagpur will enable me to cement my place as an opener would be a bit too early. There is still a long way to go," the 28-year-old said on Thursday.

The Mumbai opener joined a long list of openers that India have experimented with over the last couple of years when he played in the first Test against England at Nagpur last week after a hiatus of three and a half years.

Jaffer, who was part of the Indian squad for the recent Pakistan tour but did not get a look in there, knew it was now or never for him and responded to the faith shown in him by the selectors by slamming a fine century when India were in a dire situation.

"We had our backs to the wall, but then things eased and later we got very close (to the victory target)".

Jaffer also did not carry any regrets over not being picked in the playing eleven in Pakistan, saying it was the decision of the team management and he was okay with it.

"Even if you are not playing, it is great just to be a part of the Indian dressing room, you get to learn so much from the senior players."

Commenting on the day's play in the second Test, he said if they could get some wickets early tomorrow morning, they would have England under pressure.

"We have lost some precious time due to rain but the good thing is that the weather should help our bowlers. The bowlers will get some rest and come back fresh while their batsmen will find hard to concentrate," he said.

On the team's decision to play three spinners in the match, he said, "we wanted to get a result from the match".

 
Follow India news real-time updates and the latest news covered on Hindustan Times, featuring today's critical updates on Sonam Wangchuk LIVE and more across India.
Follow India news real-time updates and the latest news covered on Hindustan Times, featuring today's critical updates on Sonam Wangchuk LIVE and more across India.
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