Royals bank on World Cup stars
Rajasthan Royals are known to keep a low profile and punch above their weight. It is the policy that has served the underdogs well. The blue brigade mentored by Rahul Dravid has made optimum use of their home ground in Jaipur, making it a fortress. However, with Jaipur being ruled out of equation since last year, the Royals will play four matches at Ahmedabad and three at Mumbai’s Cricket Club of India.
The Royals have four members — captain Shane Watson, James Faulkner, Steven Smith and New Zealand’s Tim Southee — who featured in the just concluded World Cup final. They also have Ajinkya Rahane and Stuart Binny to lend enough experience. A confident Dravid hoped for a strong show from his international stars, but admitted that back-to-back tournaments may result in players taking some time to adjust. “It’s not easy for a lot of guys in our team. The World Cup was an emotional roller coaster ride and it’s a huge and tough event to be part of. But there are other teams too having players who participated in the World Cup and are having a long season. It’s a challenge for lot of IPL teams to manage that.”
Watson, who arrived in Mumbai late on Sunday evening, said that his Aussie mates were fresh and ready. “Four of us were there in the Cup final. It was a special occasion to be involved with three of us getting a share of the World Cup at home. After celebrating at home we’re fresh and ready for IPL.”
Steven Smith, Australia’s top run-getter in the tournament with 402 runs from eight games said post the World Cup high, he is looking forward to the IPL. “You go from one format to another. For me, Shane and Jimmy the key is in getting used to the conditions over the next couple of days here and getting ready for the first game,” said Smith.
Ajinkya Rahane, who watched Smith torment Indian bowlers for four months in Australia, echoed the Australian batsman’s views. Rahane said the small break was enough for him to regroup. “The little time of 5-6 days I got was good. I was just with my family. I had just got married and was with my wife. I started training two days back and am really excited about the season.”