Dilshan delays departure, to play against Royals

"I thought he is leaving before this match but he would be available for (today's) match. So any question of replacing him does not arise," Vettori told reporters yesterday.

Bangalore have won five games on the trot and Vettori credited his team's revival with West Indies opener Chris Gayle.

"We had started badly, losing three opening games but with Gayle coming in and his opening partnerships with (Tillakaratne) Dilshan have been able to put pressure on the opposition. Gayle has been in tremendous and has bowled well too," the New Zealand captain said.

Vettori denied Indian pace spearhead Zaheer Khan has been off-colour this season.

"He is a key bowler for us and swung the match for us against Pune Warriors. He bowls economically in the last overs and he and I bear the brunt of the attack," he said.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!