IPL 2022: 'Ricky Ponting Put His Hands Around My Shoulders And Said, 'One Day You Will Play For India," Former Delhi Youngster
Published - 24 Mar 2022, 06:16 PM
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The 25-year-old Indian cricketer reflected on his experience with the Delhi Capitals and how coach Ricky Ponting’s words inspired him.
The youngster that made quite an impact was Avesh Khan, who represented the Delhi Capitals and was second in the list of leading wicket-taker, finishing with 24 wickets.
Currently, with the Lucknow Super Giants, Avesh recalled his time at DC and how coach Ricky Ponting’s words ignited a fire inside him.
The Indian Premier League has shaped the careers of several of India’s most successful match-winners. Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya polished their talents in the IPL before making their India debuts and establishing themselves as seasoned players.
Ricky Pointing has had a significant impact on my career Says, Avesh Khan:
“Ricky Ponting threw his arms around my shoulders before my first match for Delhi Capitals and told me, ‘One day you will play for India.’ This is your chance to shine. Because you’ve been with Delhi for four years, you now have to prove yourself.’
He has always been a strong supporter of mine. It’s not like I’d only bowl in the nets because I didn’t play. He was constantly encouraging to me. He would always tell me to be ready for my chance since I was always one of the 12-13 players who would be chosen. I’d never made it into the starting XI before, but last year, I was in the XI from the first game and was able to show myself.
Avesh was a member of the Capitals’ Playing XI from the start of IPL 2021 and ended up playing all of the franchise’s matches. In his debut encounter, he dismissed MS Dhoni and Faf du Plessis with rapid bowling and a variety of variations, including a superb slower ball.
As far as we know, the rest is history. Avesh earned his India debut during the T20I series against the West Indies in February, confirming Ponting’s prediction.
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