Having made his Test debut in 2007, Ishant Sharma is a veteran of 51 Tests and 65 ODIs. Yet another fresh season starts and this 25-year-old fast bowler is ready for a new set of battles.
“It is not a question of the number of Tests or ODIs you are playing, but when you have the ball in your hand, it is your duty to perform. It’s my duty to take wickets and most importantly, I have learned to be patient. I’m enjoying my role as one of the prime bowlers for India. I had a good time with the ball in the Champions Trophy in England and the one-day series in West Indies. I’m in good rhythm and that is a good sign,” said Ishant.
The lanky paceman will start the new season with the Champions League T20 that kicks off with qualifying matches in Mohali from September 17. Ishant, Dale Steyn and leg-spinner Amit Mishra formed a formidable attack for the new franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad in the last IPL season. “I did really well in IPL and want to continue with that form. The Champions League will now be a different challenge and I’m geared up for this important tournament,” he said.
Ishant said bowling alongside South Africa’s Steyn was something he cherished in the IPL. “It is always great to bowl alongside a great bowler like Steyn. He is the world’s best fast bowler and working with him is of great help. We do have a good chemistry and I enjoy sharing the new ball with Steyn,” he added.