espnstar.com caught up with Mumbai skipper Wasim Jaffer, who looks ahead to the new domestic season.

By Sudeer Mahavaadi

Q: The new domesitc season is about to begin. As defending Ranji champions how confident is the team this year?

Ans: We are very confident as always. To begin the season as defending champions, gives you a special confidence.  However, missing players like Amul Mazumdar and Sairaj Bahutale is pretty disappointing. We do have many talented players, who are very hungry to perform and hope they will live upto the expectations. We are always expected to win and that won't be any different season.
 
Q: You will be missing Zaheer Khan and Sachin Tendulkar too in the initial stages.

Ans: Yes it is true whenever they are available they are pretty handy. Zaheer was outstanding last year. It is always fantastic to have them all the time in domestic cricket. But you can't help it. They have to offer their services to the Indian team more often. As I said, the younsters are also pretty eager to show their talent and hope they will come up with a good show.

Q: You scored a half-century in the on-going Irani Trophy. Not a bad start for the season.

Ans: Yes not a bad start, but I would have loved to begin with a ton. This is the first big match of the season and we are almost playing against a second Indian XI. I missed a good opportunity to score a ton. But I am happy to be among the runs and I hope I can carry on this form. 

Q: It was against South Africa you played your last Test. How confident are you of a comeback?

Ans: Well I have always worked hard. I have been scoring runs at all levels. My main focus is always on that and the selectors who are watching always know better. They are the right judges. I am sure of an immediate comeback.

Q: Do you think the 50 over format is losing its sheen?

Ans: I don't think so. Each format has its own taste. I have enjoyed all three formats. Keep three and stick to all.

Q: Your first love should be longer version.

Ans: That is not just mine. Put this query to any youngster who must be very fond of Twenty20. He also will say the longer version is the best in the game of cricket. I also like the instant cricket as I said but Test cricket is always the best. It will continue to survive.

Q: How has your IPL experience been like?

Ans: I really enjoyed the IPL in India and in South Africa. The crowd support was fantastic in South Africa. I hope to do better next time.