Rajasthan Royals’ all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham expressed that he would love to get AB de Villiers’ wicket in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League in an exclusive interview with the Hindustan Times. The off-spinner, who has picked up 31 wickets in 42 T20 matches, said that he would like to bowl in the Powerplay overs and bat at the top of the order in the competition.

“I would love to get AB de Villiers’ wicket. He’s the 360 player and I am looking forward to bowl to him,” said Gowtham.

The Karnataka cricketer, who has recorded a strike-rate of 168.99 in T20s, spoke about putting the team’s interests ahead of his own.

“I would love to bat up the order, but it depends on the team’s strategy. I’m not a person who has personal goals before the team’s interests. I would love to do whatever the team wants me to do. Last year, I got an opportunity to bat at number three against Kings XI Punjab, but I couldn’t make the most of it, maybe if I get another opportunity, I’ll try to do my best,” said Gowtham.

The 30-year-old explained that it’s difficult for a spinner to bowl in the Powerplays, but he would still like to take up the challenge in the IPL.

“As a spinner it’s pretty difficult to bowl in the Powerplays. There are only two fielders outside the 30 yard circle and it’s relatively easier to bat against a spinner in the Powerplay overs. It’s a little challenging, but it’s fun as well. When you get a wicket or bowl dot balls, it’s fun. I would love to bowl in the Powerplays. I would love to bowl with the new ball. I would want to replicate my performance from last year,” said Gowtham.

First Published: Mar 22, 2019 17:28 IST