Wasim Jaffer

Wasim Jaffer on the lessons learnt by him in the time away from the Indian team

Saturday, January 31, 2009

Wasim Jaffer Interview - 'Need to be more consistent'

Mumbai: Prolific batsman Wasim Jaffer, who recently won the 'Ceat India Cricketer of the Year' award for consistent performances throughout the domestic season, is keeping his fingers crossed and waiting for a call-up in the Test squad as the third opener for the New Zealand tour.

Jaffer has always been unstoppable in the domestic circuit, but translating that form into the international arena has been his achilles heel. Appointed captain for the first time this season, Jaffer lead Mumbai to their 38th Ranji Trophy title, which incidentally happens to be one more than all other teams put together.


Jaffer feels that with 1,443 runs at 72.15 in the current domestic season, he stands a fair chance for a recall. In an exclusive interview with cricketnirvana.com, Jaffer said that he was ready to bat at any number and was determined to score big runs. 

However, since the last time Jaffer was dropped, exactly a year ago, 'Viru-Gauti' combination has overtaken India's top-order. "I acknowledge Viru (Virender Sehwag) and Gambhir (Gautam) are doing extremely well. But I am prepared to bat at any number," said Jaffer.

When asked about his preparations for playing international cricket, Jaffer said that he was ready. "I have been playing non-stop competitive cricket. I believe that I am mentally and physically ready for taking central stage once again."

Jaffer acknowledges that consistency has been his biggest problem, but says he is working diligently to improve on it. "You learn with every game you play. I recognise that I need to be more consistent. If I play 10 matches, I need to get good scores in at least seven games."

On leading Mumbai to their 38th title, Jaffer said that performing well in the pressure situations was the key. "The fact that we played well as a unit and delivered consistently says a lot about the team and the way it played its cricket."