‘Gilly has to step down if he fails’

He made a mark on the Test stage, proved to be a matchwinner in ODIs and went on to earn a name for himself in Twenty20 cricket around the world. Azhar Mahmood belongs to the rare breed of versatile cricketers who have shone in all the formats.

Most of his contemporaries have called time on their careers, but the 38year-old former Pakistan all-rounder — now a British citizen — is a much sought after player in the slam-bang version. Contracts from the Indian Premier League, Australia’s Bash, Bangladesh Premier League and Sri Lankan Premier League are proof for his utility.

Azhar, who has been a vital cog in Kings XI Punjab’s bowling attack, is looking forward to a matchup against the starstudded Chennai Super Kings on Thursday. In an interview with this newspaper, Mahmood shared his thoughts on the IPL.

Big On the difference between the IPL and other T20 leagues: The IPL is the biggest tournament after country vs country cricket. People in India love cricket and it’s been a great experience to play in front of lively crowds.

IPL presents a good opportunity for youngsters to rub shoulders with the big names. Not just for youngsters, even for a veteran like me. On his batting: I have batted at the top-order over the past two or three years for various teams. For Kings XI, I come down the order and, at times, I don’t get much time to play a big innings.

On Kings XI youngsters Mandeep Singh and Manan Vohra: The two are highly talented and have been performing well for us. Mandeep and Manan have a bright future. On pressure as a result of Gilchrist’s self-imposed rest: As the format allows only four foreigners in the line-up, it’s always a challenge for us. If one doesn’t perform he has to sit out and give chance to others. I have to step down if I fail. It’s not a one-man game. Gilchrist has quit international cricket and is playing only in the Indian Premier League. People always expect Gilly to perform.