Johannesburg, Jan 15: It’s never easy for a bowling side to defend a measly total of 190, that too against one of the best batting squads in the business. But Munaf Patel, with figures of four for 19 off just eight overs, proved that it’s possible to eke out a win by playing a disciplined and strategically sound game. The unassuming quick bowler was happy to put in a sterling performance in front of some local supporters.

Excerpts from an interview

On what was going through his mind in the final overs

[I was] just thinking about the slower one because there [was] a whole crowd from my village [that was there to watch the game]. That’s why I [was under] lots of pressure.

On whether the pressure helped his performance

They helped me but I am [still] under pressure because after [the post-match ceremony wraps up], they will come to [the] hotel.

On whether a good meal awaits him and his supporters

Yeah, because everyone [will] come [over] to the hotel and say bye to me.

On whether he enjoyed bowling on the pitch

Yeah, earlier I concentrated on my line and length – after[wards] I [decided to] bowl variations. The slower one helps lots.

On his improved fitness and confidence

I bowled in the nets every day and faced four or five [of the best batsmen]. [I] continued [to train in] line and length and [worked hard on my] fitness with [the] Ranji [games].