I think I became a better bowler with Zaheer Khan's advice: Khaleel Ahmed

In the Asia Cup that was played last month India’s Khaleel Ahmed put up a couple of memorable performances. While some feel he didn’t get enough opportunities the left-arm pacer took four wickets and made quite an impact. Having been picked for the Windies series, Khaleel is be included in the XI for all the games. In the absence of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah, he will be bowling alongside experienced horses Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav.

The 20-year-old is excited to be featuring in the squad for the upcoming contest. He aspired to take as many wickets as he can on the road to the 2019 World Cup. He felt that it would be a huge boost to his confidence. Further, Khaleel spoke about his debut stint in the Asia Cup and how Zaheer Khan has been an influential figure for him.

I think I became a better bowler with Zaheer’s advice

Khaleel was a part of the Delhi Daredevils squad till Sunrisers Hyderabad brought him in the IPL 2018 auction. Sharing the dressing room with Zaheer was a revelation for him. The 20-year-old feels that the veteran’s advise was instrumental in shaping him as a bowler.

“I think I became a better bowler with his advice. I have spent a lot of time with Zaheer bhai during my two-year stint at the Delhi Daredevils. We played in different conditions during IPL and he always kept discussing on how to bowl on different surfaces,” he said while talking to HT.

I never felt like a junior in the Indian side

Speaking about his time in the Indian dressing room during their victorious campaign in the Asia Cup, Khaleel stated that he had nerves in the beginning. On his debut, the left-arm pacer ended up with figures of 3/48 when it seemed like Hong Kong were running away with the game. He was extremely thrilled with the positive environment in the dressing room.

“I was very nervous as my debut happened to be in a big tournament like the Asia Cup. There was pressure. But after doing well on debut, I felt I could go further. I never have a feel that I’m a junior in the side. Seniors support me well. Everyone keeps talking to me and boost my confidence.” Khaleel said after the training session at the Barsapra Stadium.

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