Living the IPL dream: Dushmantha Chameera aims to step up for Delhi Capitals
Dushmantha Chameera calls IPL a dream and aims to step up for Delhi Capitals. The Sri Lankan pacer highlights mental strength as key to success in batting-friendly conditions ahead of the clash against LSG.
For Dushmantha Chameera, it's a privilege when playing in the IPL. The Sri Lankan pacer is into his fourth season in the IPL, after having a decent first campaign in Lucknow Super Giants' colours. Now, he is back aiming to hurt them while playing for the Delhi Capitals.
Last season was probably when Chameera really stepped out of the shadows of the big names and seemed to show his true skills. Sure, the stats don't exactly paint the entire story, after picking just 6 wickets in 4 games. But this time around, he aims to contribute towards the success of the side.
Speaking ahead of the first match of the season, Chameera said it is a dream for him to play in the IPL and the aim is to step up for Delhi whenever he is called upon.
"For every player, including myself, it’s a dream to play here. I’ve been part of the Capitals set up for couple of years, including last season, and I’m hopeful that if I get the opportunity, I can perform well," said Chameera.
'Staying mentally prepared'
The Sri Lankan will have his work cut out as Delhi are still without the services of Mitchell Starc, who will arrive late in the IPL. The tournament has seen pacers go for a lot of runs, but Chameera believes sticking to the plans and staying mentally prepared will be the key to surviving in the IPL.
"We know that in India, conditions favour batters with good wickets and smaller grounds, so it’s always challenging for fast bowlers. Mental preparation becomes very important. If we execute our plans well, we can still succeed. So, a lot of our focus is on both practice and staying mentally prepared."
"Also, compared to the last 3–4 years, if a fast bowler concedes around 35–45 runs in four overs, that’s still a good performance. We discuss our plans in detail and analyse everything to be at our best," said Chameera.
The pacer also expressed his confidence in the fact that DC can snap the streak of seeing home sides win matches in the IPL this season.
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