'Definitely missing being part of the squad especially after last few months' - T Natarajan disappointed to miss Chennai Tests

T Natarajan had a dream debut in Australia last month as he flaunted his class against all odds and at the right moment. In fact, he became the first Indian to debut in all formats of the game in a single tour. He first came into the major limelight after delivering pinpoint Yorkers in IPL 2020, and from there, there has been no looking back. However, in the latest turn of events, Natarajan has expressed his disappointment on being left out from the upcoming two Tests against England.

The pacer feels more disconnected because he will have to miss the first two Tests at his home ground, Chepauk. However, the 29-year-old also understands that he needs to manage his workload, and his chance will be given at the correct moment. Natarajan marked his Test debut at Gabba and scalped three crucial wickets to get India going. In the T20I series, he emerged as India’s leading wicket-taker along with being fairly economical.

“Definitely [missing being part of the squad], especially after being with the team for the last few months. But I do understand that it’s important to take a break. Given that I did not spend time with the family in the last six months, I am fine with it. But undoubtedly, I will feel bad that I’m not able to be with the national team when they are playing in Chennai,” said Natarajan while speaking to the Times of India.

I am looking to play in all formats in future: T Natarajan

Chennai is all set to host the first two Tests of India’s four-match Test series against England. Talking about his capabilities and skills, the classy pacer added that he is looking up to play for India in all the formats of the game and will maintain his workload accordingly. He said, he is keen to work on his strength and endurance so that he can level up his pace attack.

“I am looking to play in all formats and will maintain my workload accordingly. I am keen to work on my strength and endurance levels in the coming months. This is the first time I’ve played for six long months at a stretch in my life. Because I trained continuously during those months of lockdown, I was able to take care of the workload in IPL and in Australia,” he added.