Sehwag still optimistic of qualifying for play-off

Delhi Daredevils have lost six of their nine matches in Indian Premier League and are looking down and out, but captain Virender Sehwag has not lost hope of qualifying for the knock-out round. Sehwag said qualifying for the next round of the tournament is tough but not impossible and they can draw inspiration from Deccan Chargers' performance in the 2010 edition. 

"It is difficult but not impossible (reaching the play-off) but for that we have to play really well and believe in ourselves. Deccan Chargers won five matches in a row in one of the tournament and there is no reason why we cannot do that," said Sehwag.

Daredevils were crushed by Kochi Tuskers by seven wickets at the Ferozshah Kotla on Monday. It was their fifth loss at home and they have now moved down to eight place with six points.

Sehwag said they just failed to put enough runs on the board. Daredevils were restricted to 140/6 and Kochi Tuskers reached to the target in 15 overs.

"We did not score enough runs. We should have scored at least 170-180. The pitch was good for batting."

Asked why the batting fails to click if he and Warner perish early, Sehwag said: "Yes if Warner and I give a good start then we are a different side. But it is not that the rest of the batsmen cannot score. There are good batsmen. Venu has been doing well. Its just that if we lose early wickets then the middle order comes under pressure."

The India opener said that defending a small total was always difficult on this pitch.

"When the opposition batsmen comes hard on you and when you are defending a small total, it is difficult."

Asked about losing their home matches, Sehwag said: "It is a good track to bat on. We have to apply ourselves, put the runs on the board and bowl well to win."