Ahmedabad, February 23 All it took was a calm mind, limited movement, and strong intent, said South African batsman David Miller, as he spoke about how his team successfully neutralized Indian mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy in their T20 World Cup Super Eight clash here.
South Africa defeated the defending champions by 76 runs on Sunday after posting a formidable 187/7. Chakravarthy, who was in good form, was expected to be India's trump card, but on a wicket that didn't offer much assistance, he conceded 47 runs in his four overs, with both Miller (63 off 35 balls) and Dewald Brevis (45 off 29 balls) easily dismissing him.
"I think it's really about making sure that we are focused on executing our plans, especially if he bowls a bad ball. A little more intent, and since the ball wasn't spinning much tonight, we could trust the line," Miller told reporters after the match.
"And once we felt that, we knew we had to take him down, because he is a threat to every team he plays against. So we definitely discussed this strategy," he explained.
This was the first major innings of the tournament for the 36-year-old, featuring seven fours and three sixes. Miller said that sticking to basic preparations, which have given him considerable success, was key.
"It's about making sure that you really focus on the simple things and do them well. Like I said, my intent has to be strong, with limited movement, and I need to be calm and focused, with good breathing and running.
"It's a cliché, but these are the things that help you in the heat of the battle."
Asked about the biggest takeaway from the win last night, Miller found it difficult to hide his excitement at defeating the team that was widely tipped to retain the trophy.
"India is a beatable team. As I mentioned, India is an incredible team. But for us in a tournament like this, it's about focusing on the simple things and making sure that we stay focused as players and get the job done," Miller said.
"We are a mature team. Many of us have played together and have a lot of experience in South African cricket, which helps us under pressure. So I think it's just about staying focused, making sure that we get the job done, and always wanting more."
When Miller began his career more than a decade ago, he was known as the classic T20 swashbuckler, the ideal finisher who could clear the ropes at will.
He understands that he could have achieved more in these years, but he also knows that cricket's shortest and most glitzy format punishes risk-takers.
"It has taken some time. I have been playing the game for a while now, and it's about making sure that I really stick to the basics, especially when there are high-pressure moments in front of a big audience like tonight.
"...this is a game of risks, and as a cricketer, you are bound to fail sometimes. So it's about making sure that you play to your strengths," Miller quipped.
