Ishant thanks mother for confidence

India

Fast bowler Ishant Sharma almost quit ODI cricket after being omitted from India's squad for the World Twenty20 earlier this year.

Fast bowler Ishant Sharma almost quit ODI cricket after being omitted from India's squad for the World Twenty20 earlier this year.

Ishant endured a poor stretch of form during series against Australia, South Africa and New Zealand before the selectors deemed him surplus to requirement for the T20 showpiece in Bangladesh.

"It was a setback for me when I did not do well for the country or when I was not selected," said Sharma.

"I think the one person who gave me confidence was my mother. At one stage, I thought I should stop playing ODIs. But my mother pulled me out of my negativeness.

"Such support from your parents or friends gives you much-needed confidence. Now, I am enjoying my cricket, which is more important. If you enjoy your cricket and express yourself on the field, you will do well."

The 25-year-old Ishant is eager to perform well for a Hyderabad Sunrisers franchise that will also include South African fast bowler Dale Steyn and West Indian all-rounder Darren Sammy in the Indian Premier League, which will start on Thursday.

"I am looking forward to do well in the new season. I am bowling well. I am in good rhythm. I played in domestic Twenty20, bowled well, took some wickets. I am confident with my bowling and hopefully I will do well for the Sunrisers this time as well," he added.

"Dale gives his plans and we set fields accordingly. That helps a fast bowler. It feels really great. I have learnt a lot from him. When Darren was not playing in the initial part last year, he was giving ideas to every member of the team."

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