Young Arzan Nagwaswalla has been named as a standby player in India’s squad for the upcoming final of the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC) and the five-match Test series against England. However, his inclusion came on the back of his great show in domestic cricket.
The left-arm speedster, who was Gujarat’s highest wicket-taker (41 wickets which came at an average of 18.36) in the Ranji Trophy 2019-20, has added that he considered former India pacer Zaheer Khan his bowling idol. Meanwhile, he will try to learn the tricks of the trade from another veteran pacer Jasprit Bumrah and bowling coach Bharat Arun as well.
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“My bowling idol and inspiration has always been Zaheer Khan mainly because he has also been a left-arm pacer. I have grown up watching him playing for India and doing really well. Although we have not played together in domestic cricket because Bumrah has been representing India, whenever we have practiced together (at Mumbai Indians), he has always told me to learn as much as I can from everyone, be it from Zaheer Bhai or Shane Bond or from anyone. From there on, it is up to you to decide what you want to do,” Arzan Nagwaswalla said to bcci.tv.
When he was asked about his feelings how he felt after being added as standby for England tour, Arzan Nagwaswalla said that everyone was very happy and speechless when they got to know the news of his inclusion in the squad as well.
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“I received the call when I was on my way back home and then called up my parents to share the news. When I reached home, some of my friends were there. We cut a cake. In 10-15 seconds, my entire journey till now flashed before my eyes (after he was named as a standby player). When I started, I didn’t even know what would be in store for me. I was not even aware where I would head to and play next if I got selected for Valsad,” he added.
Arzan Nagwaswalla continued: “I am very excited to meet this team. Despite the injuries, we went on to win the series in Australia. I just can’t wait to witness the team which has such a strong self-belief. Under Bharat Arun sir, our fast bowling has seen a great transformation. We have superb bench strength. I am sure I will get to learn a lot from Bharat Arun sir. It is really hard to digest and believe, honestly. It will take some time to think about this as a reality.”
