Johannesburg, April 28: Venugopal Rao’s success with the ball would have come as a surprise to many, but not to the man himself. The former Andhra captain has played a crucial role in the Deccan Chargers scripting wins over the favoured Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.

Venu was not bowled in the first two games but he was kept apprised by coach Darren Lehmann and skipper Adam Gilchrist on what the think tank expected of him.

"When I was summoned to bowl against Mumbai I was fully prepared. Lehmann had spoken to me even during the camp in Pretoria about the role I will have to play with my off-spin. It was good to know the team was expecting certain tasks to be performed by me. Speaking to me in advance added to my confidence," said Venugopal.

The affable cricketer who keeps going on like a journeyman pro is the role model for the Hyderabad players in the Chargers team. From a humble background, Venugopal did admirably well in the domestic circuit before finally getting a call to the national team in 2005.

"The team is playing with confidence. To add to them as a fielder gives me greater joy. No team in T20 can do without fielding well and it all started with our camp in Hyderabad. We are bearing the fruits of the hard work now," says Venugopal.

The catch Venugopal took to dismiss Rahul Dravid in Cape Town halted RCB’s late charge. Along with Ravi Teja, who snapped up a blinder to send back Robin Uthappa, it set the tone for the Chargers. With run outs adding to the effect, the out fielding has been the primary reason for lifting the morale of the side.

"The team is doing better as we are coming hard as a unit. Before the season commenced the DC management had sent us a letter and that really lifted our spirits. We were a good side last year too but we ended up losing games we should have won. But all that is behind us now and we are confident of making the knockout stage this year," said Venugopal.

Having done his bit in the field and with the ball, it is time for the batsman in Venugopal to stand up and be counted.

"As a batsman I have to be ready all the time. The key in this format is to get on with it in minimal time. I am confident of contributing with the bat too.

"All it requires is one knock where I can get a few runs under my belt, it should start flowing from there," he added.