Offie Ashwin says Chennai concentrating on their strengths

Rather than fretting about Tendulkar playing the final

R Ashwin has played a crucial part in Chennai Super Kings' march to final in this year's IPL. Not for nothing, the tall off spinner was confidence personified on the eve of their clash with Mumbai Indians.


R Ashwin will play a key role for Chennai Super Kings in today's final against
Mumbai Indians. PIC: IPL2010/GETTY IMAGES

"As far as I am concerned, Sachin Tendulkar does not worry me. My target is to restrict the opposition," he told SUNDAY MiD Day when asked how he would be targeting the Mumbai Indians captain, in case Tendulkar is fit to play.

"Tendulkar is a great batsman. Whether he plays or not is something we won't have in our equation. My focus would be to take as many wickets and give as few runs as possible regardless of the opposition," he remarked.

Ashwin, who has been in impressive form with 15 wickets at an economy rate of less than six runs per over, said the semi-final against Deccan Chargers had given him lot of confidence. "We defended a small total against DC. The wicket is a bit slow. The 3rd place play-off could be a pointer of what to expect tomorrow," he said on Saturday adding that the feeling of playing in the final had not sunk in as yet.

"I don't follow any superstitions or rituals. What is important for me is that there is a feel-good factor about the final. I will be carrying this feeling in the final," he said.

When asked whether the team was worried about their opening batsman Matthew Hayden's poor form, the 23-year-old said now that the team had made it to the final, the question of form did not arise. "Hayden has plenty of experience. I am sure he will be able to score runs in the final."

Twitter wishes for Sachin

Happy birthday to the little master and my friend Sachin !! Hope he is not injured for the final... Good luck to both teams.
-- Shane Warne

Happy birthday master blaster. Lots of love and best of wishes for the final.
-- Yuvraj Singh

Happy Birthday Sachin !" May you always shine like the brightest star now and always ! Hope ur fingers heal real quick :-)
-- Preity Zinta

Happy birthday sachin hope ur fingers heal soon.
-- Shah Rukh Khan

Happy birthday Sachin. You are one of 'the' reasons to be proud of being an Indian. Thanks for helping us rise above the pettiness of our surroundings.
-- Anupam Kher