Mumbai: His name starts with 'James', but doesn't end with 'Bond', His role in the team, however requires him to don all roles, and excel in each. Much like the fictional secret agent with whom he shares his first name with.And many times in the recent past he has proved his worth with his multi-purpose skills. ‘Hopes’, therefore, sounds an apt surname, for till he's around, there's always hope for his side.

James Hopes, one's sure, will be a key man for Australia in the upcoming seven-ODl series against India. For, not only does he play varied roles, but also fits into each of them -be it opening the batting or playing a blinder lower down, breaking partnerships with his deceptive fast-medium stuff, or making acrobatic saves either side of the wicket- with ease.

It don't have any specific role as such, I have to adjust as the situation demands, shrugs Hopes. “In fact, I am enjoying it. I enjoy batting in any position, I am always ready to share the new ball when required, and fielding has always been my strength. That could also be one reason why I a1ways play without any pressure, and when's there's less pressure, you always give your best.”

Hopes has never found it difficult to adjust to the different formats of the game.
“I have heard people talk about it (in adjusting to the Twenty20 format), but at least I have never faced any difficulty If you are an international cricketer, that's one of the requirements. I enjoy all formats (T20, ODI, Test), each has its own charm, ODIs will always retain their own in- dependent status, so also Tests,'' the all-rounder who plays for Kings XI Punjab in the IPL, opines.

How will his IPL stint help? “you can't compare Twenty20 with ODIs, But yes, IPL sure has taught me how to perform before a huge crowd. That's a very important factor, for the crowds here can be both amazing and intimidating.'' Hopes also puts playing for his country well above IPL'S riches. 'At the end of the day people will remember you by the way you played for your country Nothing can match that feelling,” he adds. For the upcoming series Hopes has developed “four-five variations” in his bowline arsenal.
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