'I don't want to miss a single game'

Kolkata: Only a year ago, he was a nobody in international cricket. Now he is widely regarded as one of the most talented prospects in the cricketing world.

In an interview with Gulf News, Ishant Sharma speaks about his journey in the fast lane:

GULF NEWS: Do you remember your start in international cricket. It was said that you were on for the South Africa tour, only to be told later that it was a mistake.

SHARMA: How can I forget that! I was really upset. But then those were things over which I did not have any control at all. However, in getting over the disappointment, I became stronger mentally. It made me more determined to play for the national team.

How does it feel to be rated so highly within just your first year of international cricket?

Well, it has been an exciting journey. Everything happened so quickly for me. I was playing Under-19 matches and representing Delhi in domestic tournaments but I was happy with myself. Now I am happier since I play a role for the national team. What I want to do is to represent the country for a very long time. I do not want to miss a single game.

Being a fast bowler and playing cricket non-stop, does the fear of burnout cross your mind?

I am not scared and want to play every match if selected. I know that injuries are part and parcel of the game for international athletes. What I can do is take good care of my health and stick to a scientific regimen. The rest is not in my hands and I am not worried about that.

But don't you think players can recover better if they are selective about their engagements.

See, if you are fit, there's nothing like excessive cricket. I love the game and that is why I took it up as my career. And this is just the initial phase of my career. I should be playing as much as possible, without being too preoccupied about the format of the game or my opponents.

Talking about opponents, you seem to have the edge bowling to Ricky Ponting...

Well, he is too good a batsman. Yes, I got him out a few times but the fact is that I enjoy bowling to him. But he is as great a batsman as anybody in contemporary cricket ans his records speak for him.

True, but you had him thinking...

I grew up watching him on television and he is one of my favourites. We had a wonderful time together in the dressing room of the Kolkata Knight Riders. But when I was playing for India against him, it was different and it was all about getting the best opposition batsman out. So when I got his wicket it was really satisfying - both for my team and myself.

The presence of Venkatesh Prasad as the bowling coach must have helped you a lot?

Definitely. He has helped immenslely in making me an improved bowler. And he has brought about the transformation in a unique way. We first became friends. We would talk to each other for hours without even talking once about my bowling. After that, it was really easy. I cannot forget his contribution.

What about Gary Kirsten, the new coach of India?

He too is a great fellow. He told us to enjoy each other's success. We all know he was a great batsman for South Africa for years. He and the other members of the support staff always stress on the importance of being a part of the family, to back each other. That helps the team be successful.

What about Dhoni, the captain?

The best thing about him is he always tells us not to complicate things. To give hundred per cent is what he asks for. Once you do so, he says, we should not be worried about the rest. He wants to keep it simple.

So, whom would you give the credit of the success for the last one year or so?

The support staff, my family and friends and my hard work and commitment.. It's a combination of everything, I suppose. There is no end to how much one can learn and, obviously, if you want to succeed in international cricket, you should always be prepared to continue working hard. That's what I am looking forward to.