NEW DELHI, March 7: Gautam Gambhir has had a few run-ins with Delhi�s cricket establishment in the last two years but back in the State as captain of Delhi Daredevils, the batsman is hoping that playing in a �peaceful environment� will bring the best out of him.
�It�s fun to be in a peaceful environment and I haven�t had it in last couple of years,� a smiling Gambhir said referring to his regular fall-out with DDCA State selectors, officials and coach.
�It�s good fun (to be a part of Daredevils) and it can bring the best out of me. It will be good that I will be able to play in a good, peaceful and happy environment,� Gambhir said at franchise�s jersey unveiling ceremony.
Having led a successful franchise like KKR for many years, Gambhir believes that one shouldn�t look at impact players like Glenn Maxwell with their hefty auction price in mind.
�It�s not at all difficult to manage players as it�s the performance that will keep them in the playing XI. And it starts with me. I need to perform to be in that playing XI.
�And sometimes, it�s not about price tag but about game-changers, who need to be given a longer rope because they can change the game. You don�t expect them to be consistent but you expect them to win 3 or 4 games,� Gambhir made his point clear.
�It�s not about price tag as it�s not in players� hand. The only thing in players hand is to perform for the team. That�s what is going to keep him in the side,� the skipper added.
Questioned if it is difficult to lead a new side which is not his handpicked, the stylish southpaw replied, �It was same when I took charge of KKR in 2011. But in this team, my inputs have been taken. Our CEO Hemant (Dua) got me and Ricky on the same page. When I look at the side, I see there�s a lot of potential.�
Gambhir also took a dig when a scribe asked the most cliched question about whether IPL could be a vehicle for India comeback.
�Every year before IPL, I am asked a standard question as to how important the tournament will be for my comeback. You don�t play a tournament eyeing a comeback, you play to win it.
�It is a selfish way to think that you are playing a particular tournament for comeback. You can never win the IPL like that and my aim is to win it for DD.� � PTI
