'I have the pace, need to focus on line'

It was strange to see Delhi’s Parvinder Awana change his bat early in his innings against Karnataka in their Group ‘B’ encounter at the M Chinnaswamy stadium on Sunday. Another question also cropped up as he and Vikas Mishra celebrated when the pacer struck a four to reach 48.

Things became a lot clearer however when the news came through that Awana had earned his spot in India’s squad for the fourth Test against England in Nagpur. The right-hander scripted a hard-hitting half-century (74, 99 minutes, 61 balls, 13x4, 2x6) a day after scalping five wickets to take Delhi past Karnataka’s total of 192.

“I got the news in the 42nd over (when he asked for the change of bat). I was fully focussed out in the middle that time. I was only concerned about what I was doing there. I told him (Vikas) in the 48th over,” said an elated 26-year-old. “Obviously I am happy. It is every cricketer’s dream to play for India.”

Awana, who is one of the top wicket-takers this Ranji season with 21 wickets, said he was happy that he got the opportunity at the right time and was looking to do well. With Zaheer Khan dropped, he has to fight for his place with Ashok Dinda as Ishant Sharma has been retained and will in all probability lead the pace battery.  

“I’ve got the opportunity at the right time. I’ve had some good performances recently. I’ll give it my hundred percent. It is very important to concentrate. I have the pace, and so I need to focus on bowling the right line and length. I’ve been playing for Delhi for the last five-six years so I am not under any pressure,” remarked the youngster.