India opener Akash Chopra says he does not really mind missing out on a big knock as long as he contributes to the team's cause by weathering the Australian new-ball attack.
The Delhi batsman has had a rather successful tour although he is yet to score a half century in the four-Test series. On Friday, the opening day of the fourth and final Test, he again missed the bus, falling short of the elusive 50-run mark by five runs.
"It is a bit frustrating not getting to fifties and then carrying on. But, definitely, if you can do your bit for the team, it is okay," said Chopra, whose first wicket stand with Virender Sehwag was worth 123 runs.
Chopra said the seniors in the team are appreciative about his good showing but it's time he gets a big score.
"It is nice to hear seniors telling you that you did a good job, but at the end of the day you need to have a big score under your belt."
The right-handed batsman, who made his debut against New Zealand in the home series late last year, admitted that batting was tough in the morning session.
"It was previously decided that we would bat first if we won the toss. But there was something in the wicket. They also bowled well. The kookaburra ball also does something more when it is new," Chopra said.
"We knew that we had to stick around and let the first hour go by.
"Also we decided to rotate the strike by taking singles as boundaries were not easy to come by," said the Delhi player, adding he had a good understanding with Sehwag as both of them had played junior cricket together and knew each other well.
Chopra said Lee bowled very well in his second spell, which could have brought about his dismissal. He was first caught off a no-ball and then dropped by Simon Katich off the very next delivery.
"He [Lee] was tough. The ball was doing a bit. When I survived [the two chances] and that phase passed out, I realised that perhaps it was my day."
Chopra said the tour has been "a good learning experience for him".
"It is the early stage of my career. I am learning to adapt to the conditions and how to cope up with the new ball. I am playing against a very good bowling attack and a good fielding team."
© 2024 Rediff.com -