May 21: While Adam Gilchrist’s decision to field first left many gaping in surprise, the captain of the winning team on the day, Cameron White of the Deccan Chargers, showed some sympathy and understanding. “I can see the logic of his wanting to field first. If they had taken a few early wickets to put pressure on us it may have been a different game and would have helped them push their net run rate up a bit,” White said on the heels of the 82-run demolition of the Kings XI Punjab at the HPCA Stadium here on Saturday.
“Having said that, Shikhar batted quite beautifully. He’s been threatening to get a good score all season with 20s and 30s, and today he went on to display what a class act he is.” Added White: “It was a good wicket, one we would have batted first on anyway, but the guys all did their jobs. We batted, bowled and fielded well and 199 is a good T29 score anywhere and on any day.
“Mishy (Amit Mishra) was outstanding — 4/9 are very good figures — and it is good to see him back in national colours. Also, three wins in a row is a nice way to finish off the season, a nice one for the franchisees too. We can look ahead to next year with many positives.” A slightly dazed-looking Gilchrist said it had been his call at the toss. “I do regret it now but I take full responsibility. There were however factors like NRR and the possibility of rain to consider. We didn’t bowl well thereafter and were dismal in the field. We just didn’t turn up at all today.”
Gilchrist admitted that 199 was always going to be a steep ask. “160-odd was a realistic target and it was a nice pitch to bat on. Overall though I think the season was a good one for a team that was uncertain about being in the tournament 4-5 months ago.” The former Aussie gloveman said he was in no hurry to take a call on his future. “There’s time to think and assess my role for the franchise in the season to come.”