The Aussie left-hander played in an unfamiliar role as an opener, and made the Royal Challengers pay with a beautifully crafted innings. “I think experience helps, having played a bit of T20 cricket,” said the left-hander of the challenge of opening the batting. “Basically, you do not want to get too complicated. You should keep a clear mind. If you go for a big shot first ball because it’s on and get out, you are still doing the right thing. I always try to be clear in my mind and stay relaxed.

“My role depends on the requirements of the team. Sometimes, I might have to open, and try and set a platform. There might be other times that I might be batting in the middle order.  The Chennai team is very flexible, we cover a lot of different bases.”

Zaheer Khan had said the wicket of Hussey in the World Cup quarterfinal against Australia had given him great joy. Asked if Saturday was about settling scores with the RCB left-arm paceman, Hussey replied, “Probably not.  Zaheer had a very good World Cup. Today, I had a little bit of luck along the way. Sometimes in cricket, you need a bit of luck.” 

Enjoying himself in Chennai, Hussey went on, “The crowd plays a part as far as the Chennai team is concerned. This pitch is also quite unique. Batting in the middle part of the innings can be quite hard. But early on, the new ball is good to be batting against.”