- By Manik Sharma
- Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:30 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Saurabh Kumar, a seasoned cricketer with a decade-long stint in domestic cricket, received his second call-up as he earned a spot in the Indian squad for the second Test against England, set to commence in Visakhapatnam on February 2.
The 30-year-old left-arm spinner now has the prospect of realising his dream of representing the national team, having previously been part of the Indian squad during the 2022 series against Sri Lanka, where he did not feature in the playing XI.
Initially associated with the Indian Air Force, Saurabh plied his trade for Services before making a move to Uttar Pradesh in 2015, a decision that has proven to be immensely beneficial for his cricketing journey.
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Saurabh will be competing against players like Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar to take Jadeja’s place in the starting lineup alongside Ravichandran Ashwin. On paper, he is the natural replacement for Jadeja who suffered a hamstring niggle during the first test match in Hyderabad.
"It has always been a dream to be a part of the Indian team. I mean which cricketer wouldn't want that? Lot of things need to come together for it, but I have had a bit of experience," PTI quoted Saurabh as saying.
Saurabh played as a net bowler during England's tour in 2021 where he had the unique opportunity to bowl to Indian stalwarts.
"Not everyday you will get a chance to bowl to a Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma, especially if you are a domestic player. They hardly play in Ranji Trophy or other domestic matches because of national commitments,” Saurabh said.
"So, it was a chance for me to have a closer look at them and study how they approach their game and their other routines. It was a great experience to bowl to and interact with some top-level players. There was so much to learn from them," he added.
Mentored by the late Bishan Singh Bedi, Kumar adopted a philosophy of continuous learning and unwavering commitment since 2014.
"Bishan sir used to tell me to keep working hard and be mentally ready to give my best whenever the opportunity comes. I never really keep myself away from nets or bowling," Saurabh said.
His association with Bedi's summer camps in Delhi played a pivotal role in honing his skills under the guidance of the revered master. Now, with a chance to be part of the Indian squad once again, Saurabh Kumar remains poised to seize the opportunity that he has diligently worked towards throughout his career.
(With Inputs From PTI)