Recognised by the prestigious Arjuna award after 13 years of playing for India, pacer Ishant Sharma said he will continue serving the nation in international cricket as long his body holds up.
The 31-year-old made his Test and ODI debut for India in 2007, while his first T20I coming a year later. Having played nearly 200 times for India at the highest level, Ishant was among the 27 sportspersons conferred with the Arjuna award on Saturday (August 29).
“I realised my passion for cricket at a very young age and since then I have been striving to give my 100 per cent effort day in and day out. Every step I took to improve my game was aimed at taking India’s name to a higher level," said Ishant in a statement.
“Till the time my body allows, I will continue to do so, and by God’s grace after that as well."
Ishant's journey has been one of promise, disappointment, heavy criticism, rise, selflessness, dedication, and finally, vindication as the current leader of India's pace attack in Test matches.
The right-arm tall quick has been enjoying his best years at the top-level in the game's toughest format and is hoping to prolong that run.
Busy with his IPL commitments in UAE with Delhi Capitals (DC), Ishant couldn't attend the online ceremony where players like him were honoured.
“I sincerely thank the (sports) ministry for this recognition," he said. "Lastly, a huge shout out to BCCI for giving monumental support in this journey and the journey going forward. Not to forget, congratulations to all the fellow Arjuna Awardees."
Ishant's teammate, Rohit Sharma, was given the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award, the country's highest sporting honour, and women's team spinner Deepti Sharma was the other recipient of the Arjuna award.
The pacer congratulated all the fellow award winners.
“Extremely grateful and honoured to receive the #ArjunaAward! Congratulations to fellow awardees for the same! Thanks for constant support and love from all of you," Ishant tweeted.
