Shahbaz Nadeem Given Assurance by National Selectors

The left-arm spinner, Shahbaz Nadeem has been in and around national selection for quite a long time now. After two prolific seasons in the Ranji Trophy with 50 wickets, he has only increased his chances for a national call-up.

It has been frustrating for Nadeem. However, the left arm tweaker has learnt to think more philosophically and is prepared to wait for his chances in the international arena.

Nadeem went onto bag his maiden five-wicket haul in the Duleep Trophy when he bamboozled India Blue with some steady bowling. It hasn’t helped for Nadeem with Ravichandran Ashwin being at the top of his game. The first preferred left-arm spinner has been Ravindra Jadeja for a long time. Hence Nadeem still has to wait for his chances.

Nadeem said the only things which he keeps in mind is performing and taking wickets in the domestic circuit.

“Only thing I have to do is continue performing and keep taking wickets. That is what I have to concentrate on.”

Shahbaz Nadeem ready to do the hard yard

“To play for India, just performing alone isn’t enough. You have to see whether the place you are fighting for is empty. There are many players who have taken dozens of wickets in domestic cricket but haven’t got a chance to play for the country. Hopefully, it doesn’t happen with me (laughs).”

Moreover, the selectors are in touch with Nadeem which has helped the spinner. Their assurance has helped Nadeem to keep his focus on their game.

“As a player, you know that they are looking at you. It keeps you motivated that you are being watched.”

Nadeem has been a part of the Delhi Daredevils squad for the last six years. However, he has never managed to make the headlines with consistent performances.

“Yes a good IPL can propel you into the national team. But in the IPL, I have just played 6-7 matches in the last couple of seasons. However, the selectors have told me that they are looking at me for the longer version. So if I have to get a chance in Tests, I have to do well in all four-day matches, so that’s my focus.”

Nadeem is concentrating on being part of India A side on a more regular basis which will propel his chances for national selection in the longest format.

“I got my first India A call-up in 2013, and I have been a regular for the last two years. But even now, whenever I play for India A, I am very excited because I know it is just a step away from the senior team. I have that pressure to perform, so I don’t take it for granted.”