‘It is my duty to return favours’: Tahir on carrying drinks for CSK players
The game of cricket is not certain and the fate of both the players and teams can change in seconds. The latest example of the same is veteran Proteas leg-spinner, Imran Tahir, who is one of the legendary figures of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Tahir ended his last edition of the Indian Premier League as the highest wicket-taker with 26 wickets from 17 games. But last year’s purple-cap holder is yet to get the nod this season after eight games.
CSK has been on the receiving end for their decision of not including Tahir in the Playing XI considering their bad run in the 13th edition of the T20 extravaganza. Questions were raised on team management especially when the franchise lost five out of its eight fixtures and is standing at the sixth position in the points table.
Also, the visual of the South African great carrying drinks for other players didn’t go well with the fans and the management and captain were brutally trolled for the same. However, as opposed to the cricket fraternity, Tahir has no qualms in carrying water bottles for his teammates provided it is for the benefit of the franchise. The South African legend is of the view that many players have done the same for him and now it’s his turn of returning the favour.
Team first for Tahir
Clearing his stance via Twitter, Tahir said:
When I used to play many players carried drinks for me now when deserved players are in the field it’s my duty do return favors.Its not about me playing or not it’s about my team winning.If I get a chance I will do my best but for me team is important #yellove @ChennaiIPL
— Imran Tahir (@ImranTahirSA) October 14, 2020
Recently, the CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan had also opened up on the South African spinner warming the bench since the beginning of the T20 extravaganza. Viswanathan is optimistic that Tahir will make a comeback in the team in the second half of the league. As of now, CSK is playing with four foreigners namely Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Dwayne Bravo and Sam Curran; which leaves no space for the spin wizard.