Rajasthan Royals pick Shrikant Wagh as one of their net bowlers ahead of IPL 2020

The Rajasthan Royals has decided to move up with Vidarbha all-rounder Shrikant Wagh as one of their net bowler for the 13^th season of IPL setting on stage next month. Along with the left-arm pacer, Saurabh Dubey, Aditya Thakare, Yash Thakur and Nachiket Bhute have opted as net bowlers for the Royals. The peculiar thing about all of them is they all hail from Vidarbha region of Maharashtra.

As per the strict protocols amid COVID-19 bound situation,  Wagh is undergoing a quarantine procedure, and will soon pack bags for Mumbai. In fact, he has represented Pune Warriors in IPL back in 2011 where he made the mark by grabbing Player of the Match award. He played his debut against KXIP and came under the spotlight for troubling Adam Gilchrist with his deliveries.

A VCA source told the Times of India, “He is going through a series of Covid-19 tests as has been the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) given by the BCCI to franchise. It’s a good opportunity for Shrikant Wagh to show his mettle. He is a fine white-ball player.”

Shrikant Wagh’s career at a glance

The left-armer had tried his luck at trials conducted by Rajasthan Royals last year but couldn’t make to the final spot. However seeing COVID-19 conditions now, larger team contingents have been allowed to fly to UAE as net bowlers will move along with the team and won’t be hired locally.

Talking about the Ranji Trophy, the Vidarbha speedster was a star performer in early 2010s but injuries became a hurdle in his career. He is known for contributing in his team with both bat and ball and now sources believe, bowling to likes of Jos Buttler, Steve Smith and Ben Stokes will bring out the best of his abilities to light.

“Shri has been around for 13 years now. He needs to be smart on how he approaches his career now onwards. If he keeps himself fit, he has the ability to perform well in the IPL. Many times, people forget his contributions with the bat. He has been holding the Vidarbha lower-order since his younger days,” the source added.