By IANS,
Chennai : Delhi Daredevils believe they have more than an even chance to beat Chennai Super Kings in their Indian Premier League Twenty20 match here Friday.
A.B. de Villiers, the South African import who joined Daredevils recently, pointed out that the Super Kings, despite winning all their four matches so far, are not invincible.
“Super Kings got lucky against Royal Challengers the other night. Also, they have lost three key players (Matthew Hayden, Mike Hussey and Jacob Oram). That would have certainly weakened them,” de Villiers said.
He, however, hastened to add that the two replacements, Makhaya Ntini and Albie Morkel, both his compatriots, are top players in their own rights.
“I know Makhaya only too well. He has been resting a lot in the recent weeks and I am sure he will be raring to go. Albie is also a very good all-rounder, but then, I still fancy our chances against the Super Kings tomorrow,” he said.
De Villiers, however, admitted that the departure of Kiwi captain and left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori was a big blow for Daredevils.
“Losing Vettori is a big setback for us. But then, we have a very good young team and we are also the best fielding side in the IPL,” he pointed out.
Meanwhile, T.A. Sekar, the head honcho of Daredvils, listed his team’s bowling resources beginning with Glenn McGrath, whom he described as an inspiring force.
“McGrath might have retired from international cricket, but he is still a professional. His presence in the squad has been a big boost for other bowlers, especially Mohammed Asif (Pakistan), who idolises McGrath,” said the former India pacer.
“Even our other seamers, Ferveez Maharoof and Yo Mahesh have learnt a lot from McGrath who has never hesitated in giving tips to the youngsters.”
Sekar admitted that the Super Kings are a tough team to crack and their morale is on a high after their 4-0 record against all comers so far.
“Ideally, the Super Kings are where we would have wanted to be, but despite losing one game, we are still in a very strong position at the moment. We have lost only one player (Vettori) to three of theirs. Our batsmen, too, have been playing well, so I feel it would be a good match tomorrow,” he said.