Thaindian News

New Delhi, April 27 (IANS) Kolkata Knight Riders coach Dave Whatmore predicted it would be an interesting affair when his team takes on Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the Ferozeshah Kotla here Wednesday.

Whatmore feels skipper Gautam Gambhir’s knowledge about the local conditions will be of a big boon for the team. Gambhir, a Delhi boy, was a part of the Daredevils for the first three years and also led them last year.

“Gambhir’s knowledge about the pitch will help the team. There won’t be any secrets in this match,” said Whatmore after the team’s practice session at the Ferozeshah Kotla here Wednesday.

Whatmore said that it would be contest between Daredevils’ skipper Sehwag and Gambhir.

“They know each other’s game very well. They will share the secrets with their respective teams to their advantage. Viru is a very respected player, Gautam is also very good. There is good contest on cards.”

On the green-top pitch at the Kotla, Whatmore said: “I did take a look at the pitch, I am fine with it. It looks to be a good wicket and it looks as if it help faster bowlers. I have seen how it played in the last two games and I have no problems with it.”

Whatmore also said that he doesn’t want to read too much in Knight Riders position in the points table.

“We do not want to read too much into the situation right now. This is such a format where you win a couple and lose a couple. At the end of it, making it to the top four will matter.

“I would suggest that you do not look at the table and go into the match, rather you should win a few and then look at the table. At this point of time, way forward is to win as many matches as possible,” he said.

Whatmore also defended batting all-rounder Rajat Bhatia, also a Delhi boy, role in the team.

“I believe it is unfair to single out Rajat because I don’t think he has got decent enough opportunities where he could have made a difference. He is as valuable a player as others,” said Whatmore.