Zaheer Khan joked around with his friend V.V.S. Laxman in the National Cricket Academy’s dining area. Obviously refreshed after the long break following his last match — an Indian Premier League game on May 20 — Zaheer has been doing the rounds at the academy, cranking up his fitness and focussing on a long season ahead in which India will host New Zealand, England and Australia.
The Indian spearhead spoke to the media in Bangalore on Thursday.
Excerpts
‘Here’ and ‘now’: “I am focusing on my bowling fitness as the season is going to be long. Right now the focus will be on the Sri Lanka (ODI) series. Being a fast bowler and the way my whole career has gone, often marred by injuries, I just want to do all the right things.”
Tests and familiar foes: “I am looking forward to this season because England and Australia are coming. I am very excited about playing 10 Test matches this season and I am looking forward to contributing in a big way.”
The good shepherd: “There is enough talent in the country and you have the Ranji Trophy to back it. They (young fast bowlers) have to perform and come up. Whenever I get an opportunity — be it in the IPL or at the nets — I make sure I contribute in whichever way possible. I have been enjoying that (mentoring) role.”
Rising from injuries: “As a fast bowler, you are prone to injuries. You have to be patient. You have to make sure you take hundred per cent time to recover and that’s what Varun Aaron has done. The NCA is a good support system and now you have enough guidance.”
Open to all formats: “I haven’t thought about anything of that sort (of skipping limited overs cricket). The IPL was important for me so was the Australian tour. I am enjoying my cricket and love being there on the field. I don’t want to complicate my thinking right now.”
