Mayank Markande is over the moon after being named in India’s T20I squad for the upcoming series against Australia. Markande, who became a household name after his heroics in IPL 2018, recently demolished the England Lions with an impressive 5/31 to help India ‘A’ register a comprehensive innings and 68-run victory in the second unofficial Test in Mysore.
“Get a national call-up is the biggest achievement in a player’s career. To be honest I was not expecting this. I did not think I would get included the national set-up this early. I consider myself really lucky,” Markande quoted as saying by The Indian Express.
Playing for Mumbai Indians, the 21-year-old leg-spinner had ended the season with 15 wickets from 14 games. Subsequently, Markande made his first-class debut for Punjab and picked up 34 wickets in 7 matches at an average of 21.26.
“My performances in the Ranji Trophy along with meaningful performances for India A must have been noticed by the selectors. and I am really happy that they have given me a chance to prove myself,” he added.
Talking about the role IPL had played in his progress, Markande said, “I have gained maximum exposure from IPL and since I got the break in IPL my game has improved.”
The leggie also shared the experience of playing under Rohit Sharma at Mumbai Indians, saying: “Sharing the Indian dressing room with Rohit Sharma will be special. He had motivated me a lot during the IPL. I always kept talking to him. He is a legend of the game now so I always try to learn as much as possible from him.”
Given the struggle of current Australian batsmen against the leg-spinners, Markande is likely to get a game in the two-match T20I series, starting on February 24 in Bangalore.
“As for now I am not even thinking about getting in the playing XI. But if I do then having MS Dhoni keep for me will be special,” he asserted.
Markande’s father is an inspector working with Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) in Patiala while his mother runs a clothing boutique.
“I told my parents today evening and they are all in a celebratory mood. I am really looking forward to meeting them and celebrate the occasion,” he concluded.
