It is all about spending as much time in the middle as you can. It is more about having that intent to keep looking for the runs. More mental than technical. The game doesn't change even when you switch formats. All about fine-tuning your mind and getting a bit of practice under your belt. Understanding your role is also important, it is more about the situation you are in. Will depend on that. (On his plans for spinners like Sunil Narine) Don't think you can go in with a set mindset especially against one of the best spinners in the world. The strength of the side is that everyone contributes. It is just about doing the simple things and being consistent. You won't see one player doing all the work throughout the season. Each player contributes something.
Gujarat Titans won the toss and elected to bat first against Kolkata Knight Riders in an Indian Premier League match. Afghan spinner Rashid Khan will lead GT in place of regular skipper Hardik Pandya, who is unwell and will miss the game. GT made one forced change, bringing in Vijay Shankar in place of regular skipper Hardik. KKR made two changes with Lockie Ferguson and N Jagadeesan coming in for Tim Southee and Mandeep Singh.
We wanted to bat first as well because of the weather and conditions. I felt defending might be easier. We had in our minds that batting first would be the way to go so that our spinners can make use of the surface in the second half but it's okay. We have two changes. Lockie Ferguson comes in for Tim Southee and Mandeep Singh makes way for Jagadeesan.