Barinder Sran impresses MS Dhoni at the nets in Mohali

Out of favour Indian pacer Barinder Sran was seen in the nets today at Mohali, bowling to the Indian batsmen before the all important 2nd ODI against Sri Lanka. India would be hoping to script a comeback in the series, being 1-0 down after that shambolic performance in Dharamshala, where the batsmen just refused to apply themselves in testing conditions.

The Indian side will head to South Africa after this limited overs home series against Sri Lanka, and have apparently asked for tracks that assist pace and bounce in order to train for the upcoming tour.

The first ODI though did not go according to plan, and the Indian team management would be hoping that the players will step up during the do- or-die second ODI.

And while the Indian team currently has a lot of fast bowling options in their arsenal, what they miss is a left-arm pace bowling option, something that they have been looking for left, right and centre.

Ravi Shastri wanted Sran to make an appearance in the nets at Mohali, and the pacer from Punjab ended up making a huge impact on MS Dhoni, who was mighty impressed with Sran’s skill set.

“Mahi Bhai played well against Sri Lanka in Dharamshala. He was not defensive but watchful. It was exciting to bowl at him in the nets. I mixed up my deliveries and bowled with variations,” said Sran in an interview with Hindustan Times.

“Knee and shoulder Injuries have affected my career. The recovery is a bit slow in such injuries. Mahi Bhai was impressed with the way I bowled to him,” Sran added.

Sran was an integral part of the Indian team when India had toured Australia, but then fell out favour, as injuries marred his career.

Shastri Sir also enquired about my stint with Punjab this season. I could play just three matches in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. Now my focus is on the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mustaq Ali Tournament. A comeback to the Indian team is on my mind,”  said Sran.

“The Sri Lankan pacers used the conditions to their advantage in Dharamshala. The team bowling first had the advantage and put pressure on the batting side,” he added talking about the 1st ODI at Dharamshala.

“Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal and Angelo Mathews bowled accurately and kept it simple in the favourable conditions to put India on back foot”.

“The Mohali ground will also have similar conditions. The team bowling first will definitely have an edge due to the moisture present in the air. The batsmen will have to apply and be watchful. The dew might trouble the bowlers in the evening.” Sran concluded.