Of Bollywood moves, and avoiding curries

The last time we spoke we were gearing up for our first match, now we are two matches in and you know what happened in both of them. The first loss, to the Mumbai Indians was really demoralising but the boys weren’t too despondent because a certain world-class bowler called Lasith Malinga was on song.

We went to Jaipur very confident and positive that we would put in a good performance against the Rajasthan Royals and even though we got beaten it was a fantastic effort by the boys. Of course, we were upset and hurt at another loss but we know it’s still early days and cricket is a wonderful game where things can turn at the drop of a hat.

After the game, the boys had a few cold drinks and reflected on what happened. By the time we flew back to Delhi, at 8am yesterday, everyone was back to their usual selves. We have great team spirit and are a very tight-knit unit. We know it’s only a matter of time before we all click on the day.

I didn’t play in either of the games and obviously not playing is never nice. But, we have a strong squad and we are all fighting for the same cause. Being involved in sport, you have to know that some days you will get picked and some days you won’t. I’m training very hard to ensure that I am fully prepared for when I get my chance.

There’s been plenty happening off the field. When we came back to Delhi yesterday, some of us were involved in shooting an advertisement for one of the sponsors. We had to practice doing a few Mexican waves and cheering while Viru hit some big shots. It was a totally new experience for me, but very interesting, and made me think that perhaps I should keep my Bollywood options open.

One of the other things that has gone right this past week is golf. As you know I am a keen golfer and so the Masters had my attention last weekend. Most of us in the squad stayed up every night to watch. I actually called that Charl Schwartzel would win before the last day and he did. He played some amazing golf, hats off to him.

I’ve got my own little Masters challenge going on. My girlfriend, Shelley-Dee Duffield, sent me the Tiger Woods 12 playstation game, all wrapped up in a lovely Easter Parcel. She won’t be coming out to visit me during the IPL at all because she is too busy with work. I sent her flowers today to let her know I am thinking about her.

Just so you know, I haven’t eaten any hot curries ye. I am just trying to keep it simple diet-wise. I’ve had a few chicken tikkas and naan breads but have been sticking to noodles and club sandwiches mainly.