Mumbai’s Indians’ Parthiv Patel credited the team’s think tank, pointing to head coach Ricky Ponting’s contribution to the team’s success.
Speaking on the eve of Mumbai’s Indian Premier League match against Gujarat Lions at the Wakhede on Saturday, Patel said it was the former Australian captain’s calm demeanour which played a major role in MI's turn of fortunes after losing four straight games at the beginning of last season and go on to clinch the title for the second time.
"Ricky is brilliant. He gives us the space and he gives confidence. His positive energy is very good. Win or lose he makes sure the atmosphere remains good and that's the reason we could stage the comeback last year.
"I don't think losing the first game (on April 9 here against Pune) made any difference. We started afresh (against KKR) and that's the way the Australian team played under him. I know how he plays and that's what he tries to rub on the players," Patel said.