Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the first choice pacer ahead of Shami. Now with Shami coming in and doing well and Bhuvneshwar injured, does that change? And how is he now in terms of fitness?
Bhuvneshwar's injury is not of any great concern. It is just a niggle, which we didn't want to take a chance. And it was also an opportunity for us to plug Shami into the games. But the fact he's done exceptionally well all goes well for us; it's an embarrassment of riches. And we would take a call as per the conditions, but Bhuvi has done exceptionally well, so I think it's a pretty good headache to have..
What's the message that you're giving your bowlers?
Here in the World Cup where every match we're playing a different team. For the bowlers to do well, they need to be aware of the batsmen's strength and their shortcomings. So I think what they really focus on, they have enough breaks between the games, and as you rightly said the workloads have also been managed. What they really work on is the mindset and the strength and weaknesses of the opponents.
Both fast bowlers and spinners have done well. How have you managed the spinners and the fast bowlers simultaneously?
If you don the role of a coach, you should be adept with the skill of spin and fast bowling. It's about understanding both that gives you the best chance to manage them. As for the spinners, again, as I answered the earlier question, the more you're aware and the more you understand what you're capable of doing, these two factors would ensure that you have the best platform for you to perform.
How do you look at the West Indies batting challenge?
They're an outstanding side and they play real positive cricket. We are aware of the challenges that exist in this game. And I think our plans are pretty much in place and we are up for the challenge.
WI has the likes of Chris Gayle and Brathwaite. Do you have to change your approach at all against a such a positive batting lineup?
Yes, of course. It's a big challenge for the bowlers too - especially when they come after you. But whenever batsmen come after you, if you're willing to look at it deeply, there is a chance for it - in it for the bowlers, and I think that's what the bowlers would be looking to do.
Courtesy: © ICC Business Corporation FZ LLC 2018