Awana looking forward to India call-up

By Abhishek De

8th March, New Delhi: Delhi pacer Parvinder Awana’s career hasn’t really panned out as he would have liked to. The Uttar Pradesh born lad had played only two T20 matches for India against England last year and has since fallen off the selector’s radar.

Sporting a moustache which has become a recent style statement with Dhawan and Jadeja implementing it, Awana had an impressive run in the Ranji season scalping 22 wickets at an impressive average of 23.59 and is looking forward to make a come-back in the Indian team. “I have worked hard in preparing for this Ranji season and happy with my performance so far. I had also bowled well in the Challenger Trophy this year” Awana told.

However, with India touring England and Australia this year Awana is hoping that his ability to bowl above 140 kmph will hold him in good stead in the pitches abroad. “India has quite a few tours abroad next year so I am hoping to get selected. Bowling fast is my strength which will come handy in foreign conditions” the 27-year old said.

The pacer who was picked by Kings XI Punjab in the Indian premier League (IPL) auctions this year for Rs. 65 lakhs, however, was not given a second chance after his dismal performance in the two T20’s against England in which he went wicketless and was thrashed by the England batsmen. “It’s up to the selectors to decide and it is not in my hands. I had a good IPL and Ranji season in 2012 and I have learnt from my mistakes. Bowling in the death overs is something which I have learnt from my experience in the IPL” Awana said.

Speaking of this year’s IPL which may be shifted out of India due to the Lok Sabha polls, the pacer said that he is ready for the upcoming IPL season. “The IPL season will be another opportunity to push myself for an India berth. I am looking forward to sharing the dressing room with Mitchell Johnson and get some useful tips from him,” Awana added.