Tinu Yohannan vouches for Basil Thampi to represent the national side soon

Former Kerala pacer Tinu Yohannan has backed the talent of Gujrat Lions’ Basil Thampi to make it into the Indian XI soon. The qualified level 1 coach believes that Thampi is a much-improved bowler than he was and has earned a much-deserved spot for the Gujarat Lions in the Indian Premier League after consistent performances in the domestic circuit.

Yohannan, who was also included in the squad of Royal Challengers Bangalore, has played three matches each in both the formats of the game before the advent of T20 Cricket. He represented the team during their New Zealand tour in 2002. Tinu Yohannan pointed out Thampi’s athleticism and ability to learn quickly which would help him represent the country soon.

“He is a good prospect and is on a learning curve which would help him don the national colours. He is athletic, which is a key attribute for a fast bowler and looks quite strong” quoting Yohannan according to an interview with PTI,  after being appointed head coach of TNPL franchise Ruby Kanchi Warriors.

He further stated that he was elated to be a part of the TNPL. He added that it would be a challenge to mentor a side in the shortest format of the game and deliver the desired output.

“I am excited to be part of something as good as the TNPL. It will be a challenge to coach a T20 outfit and make them deliver,” stated the 38-year-old Kerala pacer. He further augmented that his role in the TNPL team would be a knowledgeable experience. “It ( the role at Kanchi Warriors) will be a good opportunity to gain experience in coaching” concluded Yohannan.

Basil Thampi has been a regular face in the Gujarat Lions squad in this edition of the IPL. He has also taken a couple of wickets in the five games he has played. Along with Yohannan, Dwayne Bravo too believed in the potential of the young fast bowler as he went ahead and stated that the bowler will be seen in the Indian colours soon.