Yuzvendra Chahal eagerly awaiting India debut

Newest Indian team recruit Yuzvendra Chahal is over the moon after having gotten his opportunity to shine. Chahal received a call-up to the national side for the first time in his career on the back of some impressive performances in the recently concluded IPL.
Having finally made it to the squad, the 25-year old simply cannot wait to don the Indian shirt and play for his country.
“IPL was a lifetime experience for me. I did my best. I got to play with both youngsters and experienced cricketers like AB De Villiers, Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle and Shane Watson. It was a huge learning curve for me.
“The best part was that whenever I needed any advice, my captain, the seniors were always ready. It’s only after my IPL performance that I have got the selection call [for India]. I never thought I will be taking 21 wickets and emerge as the second highest wicket-taker in the tournament [after Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s 23 wickets]. I will like to thank the selectors who have shown faith in me,” Chahal added.
In spite of this being only his first call-up to the national side, Chahal stated that he was indeed expecting the call. The 25-year old also added that he was lucky to have played chess as well as cricket. Chahal has attributed playing chess to improving his thought process while bowling.
“Honestly, yes I did. After a really good performance, I thought I will be getting a call from selectors and it finally came. I and my entire family were too happy. They blessed me. I just can’t wait to wear India jersey.
“I am lucky to have played both chess and cricket. I have represented India in chess [at a junior level] and now going to play cricket for my country. It is an amazing feeling,” he said.
“Both are different games and played with different mindsets. Chess is a mind game where you need patience and in those four hours, you need to churn your mind to beat your opponent. Cricket is totally the opposite. It needs excitement, energy, and fitness. I have been lucky to manage both together.”
When asked whether chess added to his bowling acumen, Chahal said that it certainly had. “Really a lot. As I said, chess is totally a mind game but it has helped me on the cricket field, most importantly in maintaining the temperament. It helps you read minds and execute your plans in a beautiful way. I applied the same in the IPL and it paid off. Chess has played a vital role in my life. I will try to carry the same performance in Zimbabwe too,” Chahal concluded.