The upcoming Hyderabad star, Shoaib Maqsusi, who was a part of Deccan Chargers in IPL II, in an exclusive chat with espnstar.com.

By Sudeer Mahavaadi

Q: Shoaib, good experience for you in South Africa?
Ans: Yes indeed. Being part of a successful team like Deccan Chargers was delightful. I enjoyed whenever I got a chance to play. It was not easy to be in the playing 11 as there were many consistent performers. I was fortunate to have made the debut and performed as per the expectations whenever I got the opportunity.

Q: How are you going to carry this in the upcoming domestic season?
Ans: The league cricket has already begun in Hyderabad. We have started playing. No time to relax, you can do that only when it rains. I have started on a high note by picking up wickets. The experience I got in South Africa by playing along side some of the greats has helped me in a big way. My captain Gilchrist's encouragement was superb. He was all praise for me.
I learnt a lot about bowling from Fidel Edwards, RP Singh and Chaminda Vaas. They passed on quite a few important and valuable tips. I am sure I can use them all in the coming domestic season. I am happy I made my IPL debut, that too in South Africa, and by the next IPL I am quite confident I shall be a different bowler.

Q: Your role model is Glenn McGrath. Have you met him?
Ans: Yes I did. I must thank Laxmanbhai, who arranged a special meeting with my childhood hero. I had a long chat with him. He also saw me bowl at the nets when we played Delhi Daredevils. He said he was happy with my action and suggested that I should concentrate not on bowling fast but on line and length. He said the day I go for pace I would spoil my skills.

Q: Your best show in IPL?
Ans: Certainly against the Kings Punjab XI. I claimed two wickets. It was a great experience to bowl to players like Sangakkara, Jayawardene and Yuvraj Singh.

Q: What are the plans for the upcoming domestic season?
Ans: First, to do well for Hyderabad. Last time, when I made my debut, unfortunately we could reach the semis. I would not say our performance was bad, but certainly not up to the expectations. This time we can be a better side, since those who played in ICL have been cleared and might be included. Ours is a fine side and it will be a different Hyderabad this time.

Q: You must be dreaming to play for the country as well?
Ans: Well, who doesn't? But I know my limitations. I know I have to be a consistent performer first, before I dream to play for the country. But, with age on my side I am quite optimistic that one day I will play for India.