Bist keen to put up a steady show
Robin Bist may have been the highest run-getter this domestic season, but he knows he will have to produce something extra to stand out among the bevy of talented batsmen in the India ‘A’ side, who will be touring to West Indies for three four-day Tests and two Twenty20 fixtures, beginning from June 2.
The India ‘A’ middle-order comprises of captain Cheteshwar Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, and Manoj Tiwary and to make it to the final XI from the 15 member squad will be a tough task. Bist, who plays for Rajasthan, backed himself though.
“I agree all the other batsmen have played international cricket but I am certainly good enough and that's why I am in the squad,” Bist said after a felicitation programme at his school. “My job is to bat well in the nets and impress my coach Lalchand Rajput.”
Bist, acknowledged the contribution of Rajasthan skipper Hrishikesh Kanitkar for mentoring him. “He is like a mentor. Before the Ranji season started this year, he told me he would like to see me unbeaten in every innings. That boosted my confidence.”
The Delhi Daredevils batsman warmed the bench this season but found sharing the dressing room with international stars a value-creating experience. “Being with Mahela (Jayawardene) was a great experience.”
