Ravi Bishnoi is only 10 games old in T20I cricket but has managed to impress many around the world. Bishnoi had his first big-game experience in Asia Cup 2022 where he was a part of India-Pakistan high-voltage encounter. Bishnoi’s first big wicket in Asia Cup was Pakistan skipper Babar Azam who had a horrible run in the tournament. Few weeks later, in an exclusive chat with Sports Tak, the young leggie explained how he planned the former World No.1 T20I batter.
"We know how crucial India-Pakistan matches are. So I was ready, and when I got the opportunity, wanted to prove myself. Getting Babar wicket was a big deal because he was the recently the No. 1 batsman in the world, and is very technical and sound. So taking his wicket was a big confidence-booster. My only plan was to bowl on a stump-to-stump line. If he would try to hit shots from there, the chances of him getting out would be higher," the 22-year-old said.
Despite an economical display against arch-rivals Pakistan, Bishnoi did not get a game in the rest of Asia Cup 2022. He was not part of the recently-concluded three-T20I series against Australia but will travel as a standby for T20 World Cup 2021. Despite missing the spot in India's 15-member World Cup squad, Bishnoi is happy to be included as a standby.
"I am willing to wait for my opportunity. If the team needs me, I will get my chance I am sure of that. This is a team sports ahead of individuals and I am aware of it," the Punjab Kings (PBKS) bowler said.
"I am not at all upset (at missing out on World Cup squad). I have gotten the role of a stand-by player and even in that role I am sure I will get to learn a lot. I will be with the team, practice on Australian wickets. For a 22-year-old even going as a stand-by player means a lot," he added.
In Bishnoi’s absence India lost the Asia Cup Super 4 encounter against Pakistan. On October 23, he feels that the Rohit Sharma-led side will outclass the arch-rivals.
“Cricket is not played with emotions but skills. That is more important. The team with stronger mindset and decision-making will prevail. I feel that India will definitely win the match,” he opined.
