Sunrisers Hyderabad's left-arm seamer T Natarajan has opened up on his selection snub from the Indian team for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 this June.
Natarajan recently sat with ESPNcricinfo for an exclusive interview, days after the Sunrisers defeated IPL 2024 table-toppers Rajasthan Royals by just 1 run. Hyderabad's playoff hopes are pretty much alive as their fate lies in their own hands. Consecutive wins in their next 4 matches will take them to 20 points and thus they can even finish at the 2nd spot in the table.
What did Natarajan say about his non-selection
Natarajan spoke about various things in the interview with ESPN. One of the questions was about his expectations to get selected by the selection committee for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies. The question also revolved around his superb defensive skills with the ball during the death overs.
If any other bowler was in his place, then he would have been heartbroken and demotivated due to the non-inclusion but it's not the case with Natarajan. The Tamil Nadu-born found solace even in his 15-man squad snub.
Natarajan claimed that he is grateful to the God above for even making him a part of the selection conversation. Getting considered after 3 long years, that too, for the T20 World Cup. So he was happy to come across the news about his potential to head over to the USA and West Indies for the event.
The 33-year-old then stated getting selected for the World Cup was not in his hands but being a part of the discussion is huge for him.
"Firstly, I was happy to even be part of the selection conversation. I have to thank God for that. After three years, they [selectors] are considering me and there was chatter around my potential selection. Whether I'm selected or not, it's not in my control. To be even part of the discussion is an achievement for me." - Natarajan told ESPNcricinfo.
Natarajan is at ease with his World Cup snub
Natarajan, who has collected 15 wickets in
IPL 2024 so far, further said that he is aiming to take his career one step at a time. He claimed that his main focus at the moment is to execute his strength deliveries and help the Sunrisers win their games. He was at ease with his non-selection for the T20 WC and affirmed that whatever happens, happens for the good.
"If you want to climb to the top of a building, you have to take one step at a time. My focus is to execute well and help SRH win games. Not being selected for the World Cup hasn't disturbed me. I always believe that whatever is meant to happen will happen." - Natarajan concluded.
