Long time dream to bowl when MS Dhoni is keeping: Basil Thampi

The national selectors sprung a big surprise when they named a plethora of youngsters in the Indian squad for the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka. Among the many beneficiaries was Kerala’s Basil Thampi. Thampi had shot to fame with some spectacular show at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last year. Soon, he had earned an IPL contract with the Gujarat Lions and had a decent outing with the ball for the Lions.

Recently, as per the quotes by PTI, Basil Thampi exclaimed that even he was not expecting an India team call up. He feels great to have received the call and his dream is about to come true. He noted that he has evolved a great deal as a bowler in the last year or so.

“I am feeling very proud and happy. But, I was surprised to learn from KCA secretary Jayesh George that I had been selected for the Indian team. It is a great moment as it has always been my dream to don the national colours. In the past one year, I have become a more confident bowler and I’m hopeful of doing well for India against Sri Lanka,” quoted Basil Thampi.

On McGrath’s influence

Thampi spent a lot of time at the MRF Pace Academy to hone his fast bowling skills. Glenn McGrath, the chief operator at the academy, has been a big influence on his career. Thampi noted that the former Australian cricketer has motivated him a great deal and all the efforts have paid off.

“He [McGrath] advised me not to lose pace while bowling and I have kept that in mind. I have also gained a lot by interacting with him and Senthil Sir [M Senthilnathan, head coach the Pace Foundation]. They have motivated me a lot and given me a lot of confidence,” quoted Thampi.

On his long time dream

Speaking about the IPL, Basil Thampi admitted that the tournament was the turning point of his life. Bowling to the likes of Rohit Sharma and Kieron Pollard was a big boost to his career. He also revealed that he always wished to bowl when MS Dhoni would keep wickets. Now, the dream is very close to being the reality.

“The IPL this year was a turning point in my career, especially the match against Mumbai Indians. In my last two overs I bowled something like 10 yorkers to batsmen like Rohit Sharma and Kieron Pollard. This got me noticed. I want to bowl and M S Dhoni to keep. It has been a long-time dream of mine,” conceded Thampi.