'They have been nothing but supportive' - Harshal Patel thanks Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma for their support throughout his injury

Following a break due to injury, Indian bowler Harshal Patel is expected to get back into the game for the upcoming home series against Australia and South Africa, and then the T20 World Cup. Patel, who was unable to play in the Asia Cup, will team up with Jasprit Bumrah in India's T20 World Cup preparatory campaign against the reigning champions, Australia.

Speaking before the game, Patel discussed players' uncertainties upon returning and expressed his gratitude for having his captain and coach's complete support. Patel is likely to play in India's first T20I encounter against Australia, which is scheduled to take place at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) in Mohali on September 20.

“They (India coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma) have been nothing but supportive. It does take a bit of pressure off you. Because sometimes people make foolish decisions when they’re returning to play. They’re either trying to do too much or trying to push too hard because they feel that their place is in danger or for whatever reason,” Patel told ESPNCricinfo ahead of the fixture.

The team management will remember what you’ve done prior to getting injured: Patel

India will be looking to play against Australia with full intensity, with a combination that they have been unable to deploy due to numerous injuries in the team setup. With the T20 World Cup 2022 just a few weeks away, the Men in Blue would be hoping to forget their dismal exit from the tournament last year and their focus will now be on strategizing for the marquee event.

“But if you know for a fact that the team management will remember what you’ve done prior to getting injured, and those performances and contributions are not forgotten, then that gives you a sense of calm or comfort that once you go back into the team-obviously you will have to perform again and again and that goes for every single cricketer-you know that you will hold that place in the team,” he further added.