'His words really kicked me on' - Avesh Khan remembers season defining conversation with Ricky Ponting in IPL 2021

Madhya Pradesh seamer Avesh Khan who recently received his maiden ODI call up for India in the upcoming limited over series against West Indies had opened up on his conversation with Ricky Ponting that led to his revival. The 25-year-old has been around in the IPL for the last five years, but he wasn’t able to get the break he needed. However, IPL 2021 was a completely different story for Avesh, as he turned out to be the highest wicket-taker for the Delhi franchise.

The former Indian U19 player can bowl a heavy ball and hit the yorkers to perfection in the death overs. He certainly can get it up to 145Kmph, and was unlucky to have not got a game in the T20I series against New Zealand. However, he is expected to make his international debut soon and he will also be one of the most sought-after bowlers in the mega auction for IPL 2022.

I suddenly felt I am strong and confident: Avesh Khan

Avesh noted that the absence of Rabada and Nortje for the first few games of IPL 2021 had presented him with an opportunity and explained his nervousness for a start. Delhi Capitals head coach, Ponting ensured the youngster get his full confidence back as revealed by Avesh recently after his call up to the Indian side. Avesh finished the IPL 2021 season as the second-highest wicket-taker with 24 wickets to his name.

“Both (Kagiso) Rabada and (Anrich) Nortje were injured and I knew I would get a game. I knew I would play, but was a bit tense. Then Ponting pumped me up by telling me, ‘your time has come young man and just show the world how good you are. You have the talent, we know. Now show it to the world too.’ Those words really kicked me on. I suddenly felt I am strong and confident,” Avesh remembers the season-defining conversation with Ponting in an interview with Indian Express.

India have also presented an opportunity for leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi in the upcoming West Indies series with his ability to pick up wickets consistently. Bishnoi had a terrific IPL 2021 season with 12 wickets to his name for the Punjab Kings and kept attacking the batters.