Bangalore: Allan Donald, for years South Africa's much-acclaimed spearhead, is the bowling coach of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
The other day, the 48-year-old Donald had a one-on-one with The Telegraph at the ITC Gardenia.
Excerpts...
Q Is it exciting to again work with Mitchell Starc, the numero uno player in the recent World Cup?
A (Smiles) I'd been looking forward to working with him for many months. In fact, everybody in the franchise had been looking forward to his arrival. Starc, as you know, was just sensational in the World Cup. Since the last IPL, he's gone just one way - up and up and up... Starc's got better in terms of his skill, pace and control.
Starc has quickly taken over as the Australia spearhead, relegating the much more experienced Mitchell Johnson to the No.2 position...
What's admirable is that Starc has taken the natural responsibility to become the leader of the bowling group. We'd chatted about his taking the leadership role last year itself and I'm happy that he's done that. Clearly, Starc has exploited the opportunities that have come his way.
What's most important for a fast bowler?
Rhythm.
Back in December, Shane Warne called Starc "soft." Did he then set out to prove the legend wrong?
If a Shane Warne says that, then you don't need any other motivation. Few can bowl a controlled yorker at 150 kmph, but Starc can. Johnson, too. What puts Starc in a separate league is the control he has.
What goes into the making of a strike bowler?
More than one factor comes into play. First, you need skill... Then, you have to hone the skill you possess... You definitely need pace and control. Besides all that, you must have the ability to assess batsmen. Strike bowlers need that X factor, can't be predictable.
Generally, what do you tell Starc?
I don't say much, but see what Starc wants from me. Given the form he's in, there's not much that I can offer, except keep him motivated right through the IPL.
But Starc has come off an injury. Was there much concern?
Starc needed rest for three weeks, because of the swelling on his left knee. He's already had that period of rest.
Sean Abbott has made his RCB debut in this IPL. Has the tragic episode involving Phil Hughes ever been talked about, perhaps in passing?
Not at all. Abbott's in good space right now, he's happy and one doesn't have to talk about the tragedy. Abbott's gone through a lot and we need to respect that. He's with RCB for a purpose, which is to give his best to the franchise.
How is Varun Aaron doing?
Aaron's young (25) and is still learning. I love the way he gives it a crack and he's got quicker. He's a good athlete.
But Aaron's prone to injuries...
Anybody who bowls quick, around 145 kmph and more, will be injury prone. That's why they break down, which shouldn't come as a shock. In a long tournament like the IPL, managing the fast bowlers is important. Rotation will have to be there. Also, no bowling unit should become predictable.
How would you describe your approach as bowling coach?
Fast bowling is all about attitude. As bowling coach, I identify the ones with attitude and then see what they need. See if the action is right. When I was with South Africa, I'd go to Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel and give them a tap on their shoulders. I'd try to understand what they needed and plan accordingly. Strategy and such things are there in theory... Everything goes out of the window when the bowler reaches the point of delivery and lets go of the ball. As coach, I don't go overboard and I don't see myself as an extremely technical man.
So, what's the most important element in the way you work?
I like to make an impact on a daily basis with every individual that I work with. My impact could be small, but even that should give an edge to the individual.
Why did you end your innings as South Africa's bowling coach?
That's over, so I wouldn't want to talk about it.
Once the IPL gets over, what will keep you busy?
I don't know. Something or the other will crop up. Right now, I've been on the road for many months and would like to spend time at home, with the family. That would be a time to reflect on what I've been doing and I'll also be able to freshen up mentally.
Finally... Coaches, too, need to be fresh in the mind...
(Animatedly) Absolutely. The IPL began just days after the World Cup and, so, the past few months have been stressful. Don't forget that the coaches also have so much responsibility... The break should do me good. After the IPL, I'll chill out.