Mumbai Indians fast bowler Daniel Sams struggled in the initial phase of Tata Indian Premier League 2022. Sams was even taken for 35 runs in an over by compatriot Pat Cummins in a clash against Kolkata Knight Riders when the Australian Test captain completed his fifty off just 14 balls.

However, Sams was able to bounce back stronger in the second half of the season for the five-time champions. The left-arm seamer took 13 wickets in 11 matches for Mumbai Indians at an average of 28.46 and an economy rate of 8.80.

Sams revealed that he had a conversation with Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene when he was struggling to get going. The Sri Lankan legend asked the Australian to keep things simple and Sams was able to turn the tides. Sams came up with a fine performance against Chennai Super Kings as he had returned with impressive figures of 3-16 in his quota of four overs.

“Chatting with MJ (Mahela Jayawardene) and Bondy (Shane Bond) I found really helpful,” Sams said in a video shared by Mumbai Indians. “There was a conversation I had with MJ just about what he did when he was struggling and he just talked about keeping it simple, being relaxed,” Sams said.

On the other hand, it was a forgettable season for Mumbai Indians as they could only manage four wins in 14 matches to finish as cellar-dwellers in the tournament. MI could not come up with a collective effort and it led to their downfall in the competition.

Sams said, “I think it (has) not been the most ideal season. I actually see it as a necessary season for myself, for everyone to become better cricketers, better people.

“We haven’t quite performed the way we wanted to, but we’re excited with what’s to come next year. A lot of us in this squad have had to learn and deal with a lot of stuff because of the way that we have performed.”

Mumbai Indians will look to bounce back stronger in the next season and Daniel Sams will also aim to get better in his bowling.