Ashok Dinda unfazed by non-selection in the Indian team

Bengal pacer Ashok Dinda has been a consistent performer in the domestic circuit for his state-side day in day out and across formats. Despite the ups and downs in his career and during his stint in the Indian Premier League, the right-arm pacer has been an integral part of the Bengal bowling line-up.

The former KKR pacer is currently at the top of the list of wicket-takers in Ranji Trophy with 33 wickets, helping Bengal reach the semi-final stage of the tournament. However, his maturity level has seen an imminent rise in the past few years.

“In the last five years, I’ve been trying to keep it up and generate swing. Earlier it was back of the length, so the batsmen would always be on the back foot. Now I bowl fuller looking to get out-swing. That’s why there is a difference,” said Dinda.

Atal Dev Burman key in vitalising Dinda 

On the advice of his coach Atal Dev Burman, the pacer has changed his bowling to suit the Indian pitch conditions. Bowling fuller and in the right channel has helped the pacer take wickets in different situations of the game. He further thanked all the coaches including Paras Mhambrey and W.V. Raman who guided him through the tough times.

“In the last five-six years, I’ve got more than 30 wickets every season. In the past I bowled with a lot of enthusiasm, now I apply my mind as well,” said Dinda.

For the 33-year-old, just like another sportsman, his passion for cricket is everything. “When I cross the ropes, I become a different person. When the ball is in my hand, I feel I’m the best…when it is my day I can just swallow everybody.

Unfazed by non-selection

“In the last 14 matches, I’ve got eight five-wicket hauls. I’m not thinking why am I not getting selected in the Test team. It’s not in my hands,” added the right-arm pacer.

Dinda has taken 386 wickets in the 105 first-class matches that he has played for Bengal, further donning the Indian jersey in 22 limited-overs games.