Ishant Sharma got picked by Kings XI Punjab apparently on the advice of Virender Sehwag, head of cricket operations and brand ambassador of the team. Sharma had gone unsold at the players’ auction in February because of the high base price of Rs 2 crore.
A couple of days back, Viru bhai (Virender Sehwag) called up and asked if I am free. That’s how it worked out.Ishant Sharma to PTI
Ishant said that he is fresher than some of the other pacers as he played only 5 of 13 home Tests this season.
I was not in a holiday mode. I was planning to play county cricket and was in search of a contract. In fact, when you don’t get a team at IPL auction, you have to play somewhere.Ishant Sharma to PTI
The 28-year-old has 88 wickets from the 107 Twenty20 matches he has played and has an economy rate of 7.75 with a best bowling figures of 5 for 12. Asked what exactly would he bring to the table, Ishant answered in one word.
I would bring in experience. The amount of cricket that I have played for India has given me the experience of knowing what to do in various situations. I can pass on my knowledge to the youngsters.Ishant Sharma to PTI
He, however, did not want to look too far ahead when asked if it brings him back into contention for the Champions Trophy.
I don’t want to look that far ahead at the moment. The Indian team’s pace attack is doing well. After a long time we have such a quality pool of fast bowlers that even if someone is injured, you have a back-up. For me, it is more important to play as many games I can and try to win matches for my team.Ishant Sharma to PTI
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