Seamer Sandeep Sharma keen on ‘swinging’ wins

India has never had a dearth of such medium pacers, who have made the country proud, although they got tamed many a time by the best batsmen in the world. One such name, who has been eagerly awaiting his international debut and will be trying to impress the selectors at IPL season 8 is Sandeep Sharma — a right-arm medium pacer for Kings XI Punjab, who took three wickets in his debut game against Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2013.

Sharma was recently in the city for a training session ahead of his team’s opening match against Rajasthan Royals on April 10 at MCA’s International Stadium at Gahunje in Pune. The 21-year-old cricketer from Patiala has had a terrific Ranji season and is geared up to write his team’s name on the prestigious trophy, after KXIP’s loss in the final to Kolkata Knight Riders last year. “It was a close encounter last year. We were very close to the title, but couldn’t get our hands on the trophy. This year, we’re better prepared.”

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The youngster who has represented India A as well as U-19 and U-23 national teams, feels that he has personally improved since last season. “I’m 21 now and as I will play, my bones and muscles will get stronger. I have observed an increase in my pace. I’m able to swing the ball well, too. However, right now, I’m only focusing on bowling in-line,” says Sharma.

Sharma also adds that he has learnt many new things from the senior players in his squad. “Senior players such Viru paji (Virender Sehwag) and (George) Bailey know how to perform under pressure. I’ve been regularly taking their advice on how I can improve my game. A few days ago, during a team training session in Chennai, I had a chance to meet legendary Australian bowler Glenn McGrath. He guided us. One of his tips, which I think are crucial for a bowler’s future is – You should forget the previous ball as soon as you can; whether it was a six, a four or a wicket, if you carry the impact of previous delivery, you’ll be bashed. I will remember his advice throughout my career,” says the youngster.

When asked if he feels the pressure in a T20 game, the format being batsman-friendly, the Punjabi bowler smiles and says, “Honestly, people come to see runs being scored. If I am watching a cricket match, I also feel that a lot of runs should be made and they should be chased by the other team. I like to see consecutive sixes and boundaries and I understand the psyche of people. However, I take care that I don’t carry the same influence when I have the ball in my hands. My target is always to restrict the batsman or to take his wicket.” The bowler also has the backing of coach Sanjay Bangar, who has been monitoring his progress.

Sharma’s capability to swing the ball and bowling economical spells had seen him taking part in India’s Under-19 squad where he took four wickets in the final, against the hosts Australia and finished as the joint-highest wicket-taker for India. “That is my ultimate dream, but the way to that dream goes through IPL. It is an excellent platform to show my worth,” says Sharma.