Picture Credit: Twitter
Youngster Ravi Bishnoi had a wonderful 2021 Indian Premier League season with the Punjab Kings franchise led by KL Rahul. Bishnoi picked up 12 wickets and was one of the consistent performers for a side which failed to qualify for the playoffs. The U-19 World Cup runner-up confirmed his spot in this year's IPL season after being picked from the drafts by the newly formed Lucknow franchise.
Rewarded for his good performances in the cash rich tournament, Ravi Bishnoi recently received his maiden national call up to Team India for the upcoming limited overs series against West Indies. Speaking about his inclusion in the Indian cricket team, Ravi spoke about his journey and also revealed how legendary spinner Anil Kumble helped him develop as a better player.
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Head coach for the Punjab Kings franchise, Anil Kumble was the man who made Bishnoi "a better cricketer". Speaking to Sportstar, the youngster mentioned, "I have learned a lot from Anil sir, and those lessons have helped me in becoming a better cricketer. He would always guide me on how to back myself and never lose hope under pressure. Those things were of immense help."
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He added, "He always told me to play to my strengths. The advice was that I should stick to my basics and just execute the plans. There was no experiment. He gave me the confidence to play freely."
Speaking about his captain for the PBKS franchise, Ravi praised KL Rahul by saying, "With Rahul bhaiya (KL Rahul) leading the team, it will be easier for me to adjust since I have already played under him in Punjab. It is a great opportunity for me to be among the few players to be picked by the franchise before the auction. I want to contribute my best to the team." Both players will also feature for the Lucknow franchise in the cash rich tournament.
India's next assignment is against the West Indies from 6th February.