Kings XI Punjab's Sandeep Sharma backs his strength to swing the new ball

Indian speedster Sandeep Sharma, who opens the bowling for Kings XI Punjab, revealed that he has been backing his strength to swing the new ball. Sandeep, who has had great success with the ball for KXIP, said that his focus is on executing his plans to perfection, without getting bogged down if he is taken for runs.

On Monday, Sandeep Sharma stifled the RCB openers in his first three overs, giving away a mere 7 runs and picking up the wicket of Vishnu Vinod. In tandem with Axar Patel, the duo bowled economically and restricted the RCB batsmen for a comparatively low total of 148. Axar removed the dangerous Shane Watson early on, which left AB de Villiers as the only warrior who stood between Punjab’s bowlers and the stumps.

“I am backing my strength which is to swing the ball,” Sandeep was quoted as saying to iplt20.com. “I have discussed and worked with Virender Sehwag regarding field placements. He has helped me and talked to me about what the placements should be with the new ball, since only two fielders are allowed outside the circle, and how to use them effectively. I am doing that, and so far it has been working well,” he added.

The youngster, who’s represented India on several occasions, shared that he’s being well supported by KXIP coach Virender Sehwag.

“I had spoken about my plans in the team meeting as well as with Viru paaji. The thing is most batsmen struggle against swing; so he told me to back my strength which is swinging the ball. I was to bowl my heart out and not think about getting hit. Also, I was told never to think about losing my place in the side or being asked to sit out [if I went for runs]. Viru paaji backs [his players] a lot,” Sandeep shared.

Sandeep Sharma was however smashed for 18 runs in his last over by none other than AB de Villiers. Nevertheless, that didn’t upset Sandeep as he said, “I am not too worried about the death overs; even today the way I bowled, I was executing what I was thinking and planning.”

The pacer, who depends more on his ability to move the ball both ways, has been the pick of the KXIP bowlers who’ve won both their matches so far. He’s bagged 2 wickets and given away 59 runs in his 8 overs in the Vivo IPL 10.