Former Indian cricketer says Ankit Bawne can be the next Murali Vijay

Bharath Reddy reckons that Maharashtra opener Ankit Bawne can be the next Murali Vijay for the Indian team. The former Tamil Nadu captain feels that while Bawne’s temperament and approach are similar to that of a young Vijay, the youngster is heading in the right direction.

Bawne, who was picked in the India A squad that will tour South Africa later this month, has been a consistent run-scorer in the domestic circuit for the last few years. Recently, he played a vital role in the Jolly Rovers Chemplast’s (which is coached by Reddy) title win at the Tamil Nadu Premier League.

“Murali is more experienced now, but in his younger days he looked very much like Ankit with his temperament and approach to the game. Ankit is heading in the right direction and I think he should do well,” Reddy said speaking to Mid-day.

“He is a brilliant cricketer with a sound temperament which is ideal for four-day cricket. The Tamil Nadu League here is competitive and he proved his mettle with consistent performances. I am confident he will do well in South Africa,” he added.

Bawne confident of playing well in South Africa

Meanwhile, 24-year-old, right-hand batsman sounded optimistic on his prospect of performing well during his first tour to South Africa. Having played in Australia and England for different teams, he exuded confidence about his abilities to bat in overseas conditions.

“I have a fair idea about playing in overseas conditions, but in South Africa, we will have to play on bowler-friendly wickets. I see this as a big opportunity,” said Bawne.

Although he was not picked for the ODI squad, the Aurangabad-based cricketer was not too disappointed and said that his chance will come. “I was the highest run-getter in the T20 domestic tournament last season, but I lacked consistency in the shorter form of the game. I am sure I will get my opportunity in one-day cricket as well,” he added.