Not part of the India’s World T20 winning team in South Africa in 2007, left-arm seamer Zaheer Khan is expected to be the defending champions’ trump card in the 2009 edition of the tournament in England. After playing for Bangalore in last year’s IPL, Zaheer is happy to be back home in Mumbai for this edition. He spoke to The Indian Express on Friday about his form, his injuries and his team’s chances. Excerpts:

On playing Twenty20:

• I enjoyed Twenty20 cricket right from the start. I’m not, by any stretch of the imagination, a reluctant T20 player.

On the golden run since 2006:

• Without doubt this is the best phase of my life. I have enjoyed a lot of success of late. I have worked really hard and I want to keep the rhythm going for as long as possible. The challenge is to keep the good form going.

On frequent injuries early in his career:

• It was really frustrating. I would be bowling well, and then suddenly get injured. The initial part of my career was a struggle. But I’m happy to tide over it, I’m now keeping myself match fit at all time. I’m managing my body better and I don’t to take a break from training when I’m doing well.

On being seen as one of the world’s best fast bowlers:

• I’m very flattered by the compliment. It feels good to be regarded as the best and also get compared to someone like Wasim Akram. Along with these comparisons, comes responsibility, and I really enjoy being the main strike bowler for the team. I just hope I can live up to everyone’s expectations.

... contd.