My men are right on track: Balaji

Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan had training sessions at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Monday. The two sides meet in a five-day Ranji Trophy final here from January 19.

Tamil Nadu captain L. Balaji told The Hindu: “My men are right on track.

“We are geared up for the challenge of the final.”

Balaji felt the team had bonded well as a group. “Mentally, as a unit, we have moved to another level this season.

“We have come through difficult situations. We do not depend on one or two individuals.”

Right attitude

Balaji elaborated on the topic, “We have fought hard for every run, every wicket this season. I like this attitude. We have looked into the eyes of the opposition as we have walked in. We have had good players in the past too. But our aggressive approach this season has been the biggest transformation.”

In a side with several international stars including himself, Balaji had special words of appreciation for the less-celebrated middle-order batsman R. Prasanna — the left-hander has been the architect of several rescue acts and paceman V. Yomahesh who has bowled and batted with heart.

Leading by example

Balaji has led by example and his incisive opening burst against Mumbai in the semifinal played a significant role in Tamil Nadu entering the final.

Two-time winner Tamil Nadu last triumphed in the Ranji Trophy in 1988.

Balaji said: “I like a challenge. Rajasthan is a capable team but we will approach it like any other match.”