Irfan Pathan looks to cash in on IPL

HYDERABAD: Out-of favour all-rounder Irfan Pathan said on Friday he is aiming to stage a comeback into the Indian team by using to fullest the opportunity of playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the upcoming IPL.
"I planned for comeback. I played nine matches for Baroda ahead of IPL. I played one-day matches in domestic cricket. I played T20 domestic cricket for Baroda. I could give a good performance even after an injury.This IPL, I would like to do well and try to get into the team. I was out of the team because of injury. I will try to improve further so that I can come back," Pathan said on Friday.
Asked how difficult it is to make a comeback, he said: "I staged a comeback earlier too. So, I know that. It is simple. You should be fit and give a good performance. If you do these two things, you can."
He said he is trying to be good enough to perform whatever role he is assigned by Sunrisers Hyderabad.
"It depends on the team management to decide which position I should play in the batting order. The coach spoke to me and told me what he expects from me. Number (in batting order) does not matter. My aim is to come out with a good performance whether with bat or ball. I will be ready to bat at any order," he said.
The experience of playing in UAE would help him as the initial phase will be played in the Emirates, he said.
"I played in Abu Dhabi. I played a couple of games there. I know the pitches. But this is going to be after a couple of years. It is pretty similar to India," he said.
"The experience I have of playing around the world, playing in domestic cricket and in international cricket, I think that's going to be a big factor," Pathan said.
He said he is excited to play for Sunrisers Hyderabad team, which is being mentored by veterans like Tom Moody, Krish Srikkanth and VVS Laxman.
"I am very excited. The team atmosphere looks really good, the people around, the support staff, the coach Tom Moody, the mentors in VVS Laxman, Krish Srikkanth. The guys look focused and relaxed as well. I look forward to that kind of environment. If that happens, you perform better," he said.
Asked what are the areas he is focusing on to come up with a good performance, he said: "Every area. Bowling with the new ball, bowling in the death overs, bowling in the middle overs as well as batting. The more matches I play, the better I am going to get with my rhythm.