IPL 10: Dwayne Bravo backs Basil Thampi to play for India

West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has not featured in the ongoing edition of the IPL thus far. He has been one of the top performers in the tournament history. Plying his trade for the Gujarat Lions in the IPL 2017, Bravo has been warming the benches due to an injury. However, much to the relief of his fans, the all-rounder is likely to get his services soon in the tournament.

In a recent conversation with India Today, Dwayne Bravo spoke at length about one Indian player who has impressed him the most in the Lions camp. He noted that the young Kerala pacer Basil Thampi is one of the most exciting youngsters in India. He went on to say that Thampi will go on to represent the national side someday soon.

“Basil Thampi is a very, very talented youngster. I would say he will get the opportunity to play for Team India in a year or so. He has the talent, obviously, but he also has a lot of heart, pace and the skill. He’s always willing to learn,” quoted Dwayne Bravo.

Thampi went wicketless in the first couple of games in the IPL this year. However, he got his first scalp and that was an important one. He dismissed the dangerous looking Chris Gayle in the match against Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Speaking about his traits, Dwayne Bravo noted that Thampi is a keen learner and keeps asking questions. He has been following Thampi for a long time now. He further noted that it is only a matter of time that he evolves as a special talent.

“He’s willing to learn. He asks the right questions. I think India cricket is in right direction when you have someone like him. Bowling 140-plus, like Indian speedsters Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami, Thampi has the skill and is really good. I really wish him all the best from the bottom of my heart,” quoted Bravo.

“I follow him very closely, I try to give him a lot of confidence and experience, explain to him, break down the game to him. He’s still in a learning phase. He has the raw natural talent and ability. It’s a matter of playing more games, give him more experience and exposure,” Bravo conceded further.