IPL 2016: Glad I have not been a burden, says Zaheer Khan

Delhi Daredevils skipper Zaheer khan said he is glad that he has not been a burden and that it was very hard for him to bid adieu to his international career in 2015. The left-handed pacer played in the national side for 15 years and has 610 international wickets.

The 37-year-old announced his retirement last year and said that he would continue to play in the IPL.

"I am glad I have not been a burden. I left international cricket when I knew there was still cricket left in me. It was very hard to say goodbye. Looking back, it was the right thing to do. I retain the fire,” he said in an interview with The Hindu on Wednesday.

DD, who have been slammed for performing poorly over the years, have suddenly seen an incredible run this season and are currently in the number two position on the points table.

Zaheer feels that the result of making decisions on the go while playing shapes one's success. “I am doing what I have been doing all these years. Just giving shape to plans and tactics that have the support of Rahul Dravid.

“The focus is on doing the basics right. It sounds easy, but is tough to achieve. You have to go with the game and take instant decisions on the field. If you succeed, you become a leader. If not, there are brickbats,” he said.

On being asked what he feels about being called a 'super captain’ and the reason for Delhi’s success so far, he said, "I am not. I am doing what I did in Tests and one-dayers. Some field placings come across as unorthodox, but they depend on the comfort level of the bowler. We may have plans but they have to be executed too.

“I am actually lucky to have the bowling attack that is able to execute the plans. That has been the key for the team.”

DD have been performing consistently with their top-order batsmen giving a fabulous start and the bowlers performing considerably well. The team, which had the 'underdogs' tag, have now become serious title contenders.

Zaheer feels that T20 suits him as he has always been appealed by the high-pressure situations in the format. "I enjoy being out there. T20 format is ideal for people like me. The dynamics of high pressure have always appealed to me and I have thrived when faced with tough situations. The match intensity is less in T20 because I have to bowl four overs.

"In Tests, it is 18 overs a day. I feel T20 is less strenuous but the travelling is very hectic. In terms of workload, it is chalk and cheese.”

Apart from the fact that his side has been performing exceptionally well, he also added that being aware of the opponent teams' plans has been advantageous.