Pacer Ashwath makes his mark after a rich haul

Ashwath’s effort hasn’t gone unnoticed with the player being told that he is on the radar of the senior state selection panel. 

“I came back strongly after not performing well in the second edition of TNPL. I took a break for two months post-TNPL to work on correcting flaws. I thought my preparation was not at the level I wanted it to be during TNPL, and that break really benefitted me. I worked on improving my fitness and also underwent strength-training sessions which have stood me in good stead. Until two or three years ago, I didn’t possess the physique required for a fast bowler and now I’m paying a lot of attention to my fitness,” said the 22-year-old. 

One person he turns to for guidance is former India U-19 captain M Senthilnathan. “He has been my guiding force for the last four to five years. He gives me tips on batting and they are something that I imbibed and I’m constantly working towards becoming a useful batsman,” added Ashwath. 

Training at the MRF Pace Foundation has also enabled the gangling pacer to interact with the legendary Australian fast bowler, Glenn McGrath. “He doesn’t speak much but whenever he says something it carries a huge amount of significance. His presence is inspiring and there is so much to learn from him. He helps us understand the importance of preparation,” remarked Ashwath. 

Another individual who joins the list of mentors that Ashwath has a lot of respect for is Hemang Badani, coach of Chepauk Super Gillies in the TNPL. “He has played for India at the highest level and he is someone who looks to win all the time. He lifts the mood in the dressing room with his encouraging words and is ever ready to offer inputs,” signed off Ashwath.