Carlisle: We have to show faith in our abilities
Special Correspondent - 27 February 2002

It is difficult being Stuart Carlisle these days. With Andy Flower struggling, Zimbabwe has been at the receiving end in recent Tests in the sub-continent. After being whitewashed by the Sri Lankans in the previous series, they are faced with the prospect of another rout in India. The Zimbabwean captain spoke about his team's hopes ahead of the second Test at Delhi.

What are Zimbabwe's chances after being 1-0 down?

Well, we have come here to play and are doing exactly that. We did lose the first Test but it happens. Our spirits are not down and we are hopeful that we will win this Test and square the series. We have to play well, though, and show faith in our own abilities.

Have you seen the pitch?

Yeah, it's a typical slow Indian wicket. It doesn't seem to have anything in it for the fast bowlers. In fact, I would believe it will help the spinners and could break early, as early as the third day itself. India will have the upper hand but we have to look at our options. Ray Price bowled well at Nagpur, and I would have been very happy if our main spinners had also toured this time, rather than resting at home with injuries. But, there is nothing we can do.

What total will Zimbabwe be comfortable with?

We have to try and get scores of around 400 in our first innings. We did that in our last tour here and need to repeat it. For that every body will have to pitch in with useful effort. But I am confident that they would do it now.

Why is Zimbabwe always under pressure once Andy Flower fails to come up with big scores?

Well, Zimbabwe have to learn that we cannot only depend on Andy Flower every time. Others also have to contribute and they are not doing it right now. It is the job of the batsmen to score runs and play to their own potential rather than rely on just one player.

© CricInfo

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