How Glenn McGrath Shaped The Career Of "Ticket Collector" Himanshu Sangwan

Himanshu Sangwan has been grabbing the headlines after he single-handedly tore apart a star-studded Mumbai team to help Railways steal a victory in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. His six wickets also included the heavyweights of Indian cricket like Prithvi Shaw and Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane. After the hard-earned success, the fast bowler has credited all his success in his maiden Ranji season to the legendary fast bowler Glenn McGrath.

Professionally a ticket collector, Himanshu, had a passion for the game since his childhood days and worked hard during the age-groups to make his way to the top. However, things changed when Himanshu Sangwan landed in MRF Pace Foundation for a brief period in 2019 and trained under the watchful eyes of the Aussie great McGrath.

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Himanshu Sangwan credits his success to McGrath

Calling Glenn McGrath as his idol, Himanshu said that he is following the legend’s advice by every word. Furthermore, he also shared his experiences working with McGrath in the MRF Foundation while speaking to Timesofindia.com. Himanshu Sangwan also revealed two most essential learnings from the camp, which has helped him find success in the Ranji Trophy.

“I take inspiration from Australia legend Glenn McGrath. He is my idol. I learnt a lot from McGrath during my stint at the MRF Pace Foundation. I was there for a short camp in March (2019). He used to watch my videos and tell me the areas where I should improve. He is a legend of the game. He told me one thing – ‘when in trouble, go to the basics,’” Sangwan said. 

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“I bowled many deliveries under his (McGrath’s) supervision, and he was taking notes. After every session, he used to motivate me and tell me technical things. ‘Stick to the basics and stay patient’ – these are the two things I will always remember from McGrath. Honestly, his guidance is helping me a lot in the Ranji Trophy,” he added. 

Himanshu Sangwan is on a roll in his debut Ranji Trophy tournament. Before taking six wickets against Mumbai, his third Ranji match, the medium-pacer claimed four wickets against Uttar Pradesh and then two wickets against Saurashtra. In total, the youngster has 12 wickets in three games so far in the tournament. However, this is only stepping stones for the young cricketer who strives for consistency to knock the doors of the national side.