Khaleel Ahmed sees Windies series as preparatory series for World Cup

Khaleel Ahmed made his debut during India’s victorious Asia Cup campaign in Dubai and his ability to swing the ball at a fair pace impressed the team management and skippers. 

Khaleel Ahmed is giving his best shot to contribute for the World cup. He spoke to media about his World cup preperation, “It’s a good preparation for me for the World Cup. I want to take as many wickets as I can in the ODIs leading up to the World Cup. It will also boost my confidence and I will be under less pressure, if I am picked for the World Cup,” Khaleel said ahead of India’s first ODI against West Indies on Sunday.

Khaleel also confessed about his stint at the Delhi Daredevils with former left-arm pacer Zaheer Khan as the mentoring helped him evolve. 

“I think I became a better bowler with his (Zaheer’s) advice,” the 20-year-old from Rajasthan’s Tonk said. He further added, “I have spent a lot of time with Zaheer bhai during my two-year stint at the Delhi Daredevils. 

“We played in different conditions during IPL and he always kept discussing on how to bowl on different surfaces,” he added.  

“I was very nervous (for my debut) as my first tournament happened to be a big tournament like the Asia Cup. There was pressure. But after doing well on debut, I felt I could go further,” Khaleel said after the net session at Assam Cricket Association’s Barsapra Stadium.

He also appreciated the sportsmanship of his colleague players as they never made him feel like a newcomer even if it is on-field or off-field. 

“I never have a feel that I’m a junior in the side. Seniors support me well. Everyone keeps talking to me and boost my confidence,” he said of the good camaraderie in the side.