In preparation for the T20 World Cup, India's captain Rohit Sharma on Sunday made the day of Drushil Chauhan, an 11-year-old cricket enthusiast, by allowing the youngster to bowl at him in the nets.
After the Indian team arrived for its afternoon practise session, Drushil, one of the several children who had been present at the WACA stadium for their morning session, dazzled everyone with his fluid bowling motion. India captain Rohit encouraged Drushil to bowl at him in the nets after being impressed and seeing his potential.
The entire episode was described by Team India's analyst, Hari Prasad Mohan, in a video that the BCCI posted.
"Children were ending up their morning activity when we arrived at the WACA for a practise session at lunchtime. As soon as we walked into our dressing area, we could see about 100 youngsters playing cricket and having fun. Everyone noticed one particular child, and Rohit was the first to recognise him "Hari remarked.
"Everyone was in awe of the kid's fluid run-up and how brilliant he was at something after watching him bowl two or three balls. He was battering the bat nonstop. He was instructed to bowl a few balls in the nets by Rohit after he left the changing room. It was an incredible sight " he added.
The left-arm bowler was given permission to visit the team's locker room as well, where he spent some time talking with the managers and some of the players.
"When he spotted me, Rohit Sharma instructed me to bowl. I was shocked since my father had just the day before informed me that I might be able to bowl to Rohit. A swinging yorker is my favourite ball ""Drushil" stated.
Rohit questioned Drushil after the net session: "You live in Perth; how are you going to represent India?" I'm going to India, but I don't know when I'll be good enough, the youngster responds. Additionally, the Indian captain signed some memorabilia for him.
India will take on Australia and New Zealand on October 17 and 19 in the two official warm-ups ahead of tournament proper. They will face Pakistan in their T20 World Cup campaign opener on October 23 at the MCG.