Bengal pacers Akash Deep and Sayan Ghosh will be travelling with two of the popular IPL franchises for the league's 13th edition in UAE as net bowlers.
While Ghosh has been picked to do the net duties for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), Akash will be helping the Rajasthan Royals (RR) batsmen in practice during the 60-game tournament, beginning September 19 and running till November 10.
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"We are happy that the franchises have shown interest in the two young lads. The discussions were on during the last few days and they have confirmed this today. They would be joining as squad bowlers, wish both of them all the best for their success," Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) president, Avishek Dalmiya, said in a statement.
CAB secretary Snehasish Ganguly also expressed his delight at the development, adding: "These players are very talented and have a lot of potential. This stay with the franchises for some 75 to 80 days will further help them hone their skills."
Ghosh was, in fact, bagged at the auction for INR 20 lakhs by Delhi Capitals (DC) for IPL 2019, but he didn't get to play. The 27-year-old said he is looking forward to bowl to the likes of KL Rahul, Chris Gayle among others in the KXIP camp.
"It’s a great opportunity for me. And the experience I will gain will help Bengal in future. It is a welcome break from being lockdown in our houses. I can bowl and play cricket which is a great motivation," he said.
Akash is not only excited to bowl to batsmen of international quality, but also pick their brains. He said, "I will get a chance to bowl to some of the best in the world. Besides with Steve Smith as skipper and Andrew McDonald as coach there will be a lot to learn."
IPL franchises have been forced to arrange for and travel with the net bowlers on their own, considering the strict bio-secure protocols in place for the safe conduct of the tournament in UAE amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
(With PTI inputs)
