Gillies’ ‘Man of the Match’ Dhas says his dream is to play in IPL

Dhas, who hails from a fishing hamlet, said it was a dream come true to bag the man-ofthe-match award. “Ten years ago, I was just a fisherman, for nine years I was going out to sea. I am feeling very happy now and I can say that this was always my dream. When I started playing cricket, I came with this dream. I am happy to have fulfilled it,” Dhas said. 

The all-rounder said the support he received from all quarters is immense. “There was good support for us. I played in the SS Rajan T20 match here before. The management and coach of CSG have been looking after us well and there is plenty of support for us. We are definitely going to fight to try and win the trophy. There is great support here in Natham, the ground is good and the crowd is fantastic,” Dhas added. Leftarm spinner Alexander said having multiple plans, for different situations, helped his team come out victorious. “The ground is very small and the first six overs are a run fest because of the power-play. If we keep thinking of that, it won’t be of any use. They have the bat and we have the ball and we have to play with no fear. As a team, we have a Plan A and B so we have to implement whatever is suitable for that moment. We should play fearlessly as they will keep hitting but once they get out we have a chance in the game,” he said referring to Karaikudi’s Vijay Kumar, who was going great guns in the first three overs.

Alexander said he was happy not letting down CSG skipper R Sathish and responded with crucial wickets. “When it’s easy to hit the fast bowlers the captain trusts the spinners and gives us the ball. So if we follow his plan everything will fall in place and there is a chance for us to come back in the game. If you have self-confidence it’s more than enough you can achieve a lot,” he added. Alexander finished with three wickets for 28 runs. 

Dhas hoped his dream of playing in the national team colours and the IPL are fulfilled through TNPL. “My long time goal is to play in the IPL and for India, so this tournament will hopefully help me achieve it. I have played Ranji Trophy for two years as well. Since this tournament is being telecast on TV, a lot of people are getting to watch me play. It is a great motivation for me to play for India as well and I hope to achieve that,” he added.