Guwahati, Jan. 30: Assam Ranji captain Dheeraj Jadhav has expressed happiness at being able to help local players perform and take the team almost through to the knockouts of the apex domestic tournament of the country.

Talking exclusively to The Telegraph here on the eve of the ongoing match against Andhra, the Pune professional, who has been representing Assam for the last six seasons, said, 'I told you before the onset of the season that my first aim this year would be to help the local players deliver, which they have started doing. It is their performance which has seen us almost through to the knockouts and I am happy about it.'

He was referring to performances by Tajinder Singh, Gokul Sharma, Swarupam Purkayastha, Arup Das and Krishna Das, among others.

'I have been playing for Assam for six years and it was always my aim to help the side promoted to the upper groups in Ranji Trophy, which seems to be in our sight now. When Assam has given me so much, including allowing me to play my 100th first class match, it is also my duty to give something back to Assam. If this aim is accomplished, our objective will be to plan and prepare to take the field in the tougher group next season,' Jadhav added.

About wickets eluding key bowlers Abu Nechim Ahmed and Arlen Konwar, he said: 'It is not necessary for experienced players like them to always be among the wickets. Abu had been instrumental in our thumping victories against Hyderabad and Goa. He chipped in with vital wickets at crucial times that helped us win the matches. Arlen, too, has been very useful in the team. His experience and contributions are invaluable. Presence of players like them is indispensable in strengthening a team.'

On the outstanding form of off-spinner Swarupam Purkayastha, Jadhav said, 'He is extremely talented and is in tremendous form. This is his initial achievement and he needs to hold on to it and improve further to go to the next level. He is very hard working and I hope, he will continue his good work.'

Swarupam has drawn the attention of national selectors. Sandeep Patil had a one-on-one talk with him in Goa, which shows the kind of attention he has drawn. Purkayastha has registered five consecutive five-wicket hauls in the last three matches.

On the match against Andhra Pradesh, Jadhav said: 'We should count this match as the last of the season and try to tally full points from it.' Assam need only three points from two matches to qualify for the knockouts.