Happy to contribute for the team, says Vijay

Chennai, May 26 (IANS): Quite typically, Murali Vijay sought to stay rooted to the ground despite his magnificent knock of 113 that played a key role in Chennai Super Kings‘ 86-run win against Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League (IPL) game here Friday. That knock facilitated Super Kings’ entry into the final against the Kolkata Knight Riders.

While Vijay deftly ducked a question whether Morne Morkel’s absence was to Super Kings’ advantage, he declined to compare Friday’s century with any of his previous innings, and said he was happy to have contributed to his team’s victory.

“Obviously, I can’t comment on that (Morkel’s omission). That’s their decision. Of course, he is a fantastic bowler,” Vijay said.

“I just went in and started striking the ball. I always go there with (the intention of) wanting to win the match and not just play for CSK. It’s a great feeling to contribute for the team.”

“I don’t want to compare this knock with any other, but certainly I had to work hard for it. It was hot and humid and I had to take a lot of singles and twos. I enjoyed the innings and I couldn’t have asked for more,” said Vijay.

On Sunday’s final against the Kolkata outfit, Vijay preferred to take a simplistic perspective and said the Super Kings were all set for the big game.

“Every team can beat the other on a given day. So we need to be wary and cannot take things lightly. The only thing I can tell you is that we are geared up for the match,” Vijay added.