'Just because you've gone for more money doesn't mean the ball suddenly swings more' - Pat Cummins on IPL pressure

Australia fast-bowler Pat Cummins has opened up on the pressure that comes with a big price tag in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Last year, the right-arm pacer became the most expensive overseas buy ever in the IPL history after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured his services for a whopping amount of Rs 15.5 crore.

Earlier this year, Chris Morris left behind Morris to become the most expensive overseas buy. Coming to Cummins’ performance in IPL 2020, the Australia pace spearhead failed to deliver as per expectations. Cummins struggled for consistency throughout the season and eventually finished the season with 12 wickets from 14 games.

Unsurprisingly, he faced severe criticism from several quarters for his performance. All eyes will be on him in the upcoming IPL 2021 which is less than a month away. And as Cummins gear up for another season in the tournament, he has opened up about the pressure the players deal with in professional cricket.

“Whenever you play professional cricket anywhere, there will be lots of pressure. If you are coming off a good game, there is pressure to do it again; if you are coming off a bad game, there is pressure to perform.” Pat Cummins said in a chat on KKR’s YouTube channel.

“I guess the auction brings another kind of pressure. We just got to try and manage this. Just because you have gone for more money doesn’t mean, the ball suddenly swings more or the wicket is suddenly greener, or the boundaries are bigger. It’s the same playing field, so I just try to concentrate on what I do well. I guess that’s what is going to bring about the best success for KKR while I’m here,” Cummins added.

Backing from KKR makes me feel lucky: Pat Cummins

Pat Cummins further spoke about the support he received from KKR head coach Brendon McCullum. While Cummins struggled for consistency throughout IPL 2020, McCullum fully backed the bowler. Cummins said the backing made him feel lucky. He also revealed that the prospect of working with McCullum excited him the most after he was signed up by KKR.

“It makes me feel lucky to have that backing from the coach (Brendon McCullum). He is also someone that I have played quite a bit against. So, for him to have that kind of regard, I feel really lucky to have. This was the thing I was most excited about – to come over here and work with him.” Cummins said.