The high-profile Indian Premier League is generally perceived to have had a negative impact on some young talents. Nevertheless it also continues to be a perfect platform for youngsters to showcase their ability and grab the attention of selectors. More importantly, a few decent performances in the IPL will also lift the confidence level to a new high. For example, take the case of all-rounder Ammana Ashish Reddy of Hyderabad.
Playing for Deccan Chargers against Royal Challengers of Bangalore in the last game of IPL in the city, Ashish bowled a decisive spell of three for 25 which included the well-set Virat Kohli, Vinay Kumar and Muthiah Muralitharan. He played a significant role in scripting a memorable win for Chargers as RCB folded up chasing a modest target of 133.
The experience of rubbing shoulders with the likes of Kumar Sangakkara, Dale Steyn is another experience which could have enhanced his self-confidence to a great extent.
In four matches this Ranji season, 21-year-old Ashish scored 194 runs and picked 19 wickets to signal his arrival in domestic cricket with authority. “I am enjoying the run and hope to keep improving,” he says. His game too seemed to have taken off after an impressive debut against Saurashtra with a six-wicket haul followed by a defiant half-century in the second innings.
It may be too early to predict a great future on the bigger stage. The contours of his future will depend on how well he sustains his game and commitment levels. As of now there is no doubt that Ashish Reddy is the find of the season for Hyderabad.
