According to a report in the Outlook, India pacer Navdeep Saini, who is undergoing recovery from a groin injury he suffered during a Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Himachal Pradesh last month, is expected to be fit for India’s T20I series against West Indies at home starting December 6.
“I’m recovering well. I have started bowling and luckily didn’t experience any discomfort. Hopefully, I’ll be there (in contention for selection),” Saini told Outlook.
As a result of the injury, the 26-year-old had to sit out of the recently concluded three-match T20I series against Bangladesh. He wasn’t considered for the ongoing Test series against the Tigers as well.
Saini had a terrific start to his international career as he registered figures of 3/17 in his debut T20I during the tour of West Indies three months back. He consistently clocked speeds of over 145 kph during the spell and had also bowled a wicket-maiden in the last over of the innings. His scalps included Kieron Pollard, Shimron Hetmyer and Nicholas Pooran, all of whom have been proven performers in T20 leagues around the world.
Saini also finished the series as the highest wicket-taker with five scalps to his name.
“It (the series vs Windies) was possibly the best moment of my cricketing career. Virat (Kohli) bhai helped me a lot,” said Saini.
“The best part about playing under him is he allows you to express yourself. He keeps things simple and he just says that whatever field you want, I’ll give you. He never puts you under pressure.”
Saini also played in the T20I series against South Africa. Although he picked up just one wicket in two matches, he impressed everyone with his sheer pace once again.
He is an exciting prospect for Indian cricket and will be a solid cover for the side across all formats even if he doesn’t become a first-team regular soon.