Hyderabad, Mar 3: Left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojhabecame the third quickest Indian to reach 100 wickets when he scalped Australian James Pattinson in the first innings of the fourth Test at Delhi recently. The 26-year-old, who has 102 Test wickets from just 22 Tests, is also the joint highest wicket-taker in Tests from Hyderabad, equaling off-spinner Shivlal Yadav's mark. Ojha, who is in Bangalore preparing with Mumbai Indians for their opening game against Royal Challengers, said the IPL and his achievements on Tuesday. Excerpts:
IPL a boon: It's a great platform for youngsters. I was just a domestic player when I was signed up by the Deccan Chargers in 2008. After some good performances that year (11 wickets), there was no looking back. I went on to get my India cap. For youngsters, it's anawesome opportunity to rub shoulders with international stars and legends of the game. Even if one doesn't get to play many games, being in the same dressing room is in itself education.
Struggles: I had a really good time with the Deccan Chargers in the first four seasons (60 wickets in 54 matches). I struggled a bit after moving to the Mumbai Indians last season. And then, after doing so well against England, I got to play only two Tests in the recent series against Australia but was able to cross the 100-wicket mark. I have learnt to take disappointments in the stride. Such moments only make me mentally tougher.
Tendulkar effect: It's great to have someone like Sachin paaji in the dressing room. He is an inspiration for all of us as the energy, commitment and dedication he has for the game even after more than two decades of international cricket is just amazing. He is an awesome player and a wonderful person. I always love to bowl to him at the nets as I get to learn a lot from it.
Kumble factor: We have good support staff and that helps a lot in a tough competition like this. Having Anil (Kumble) bhai as a mentor is really proving to be a blessing for me especially. His vast experience and knowledge of the game is something that I want to tap into during this season. I will be working with him closely and look to become a better bowler.
New skipper Ponting: There is not much that I can say about Ponting. He is a proven match-winner and is not only a great batsman but also a wonderful captain. On top of it, he is a jolly good guy and gets along well with all the players. His very presence will be a big boon for the team.
Learning from Harbhajan: I consider myself fortunate to have played with Bhajji. I have gained a lot from him. To have a senior like him is always a great thing for a youngster.
John Wright: It is still early days with him. Haven't been able to interact with him much but he has tremendous knowledge of the game and I look forward to tap into it.
Batting: I have started working on my batting too with Wright helping me out in that area. I want to contribute to the team with the willow too as in a T20 game every run scored is vital.
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