Didn’t expect India call-up so early, reveals Mayank Markande

Bought by Mumbai Indians for a sum of Rs.20 Lakhs back in the 2018 IPL auction, leg-spinner Mayank Markande was one of the breakout stars in the last edition of the tournament. Mayank picked up 15 wickets from 14 matches last year. The youngster made his First-class debut for Punjab  in the 2018–19 Ranji Trophy in November and was their leading wicket-taker in the tournament with a total of 29 dismissals in six matches.

After impressing on the domestic circuit, Markande was included in the India ‘A’ team that played two unofficial Tests against the England Lions on home soil. Mayank completed a five-wicket haul and powered the home team to an innings and 68-run victory in the second unofficial Test in Mysore.

On that very day itself, the 21-year received his first call-up to the Indian cricket team after he was named in the T20I squad for the two matches against Australia in the coming weeks.

"I was in Mysore and was playing against England Lions. When I came back to the dressing room, I saw that my phone was blinking. There were lots of missed calls and messages. I was surprised to see so many messages and calls. Those were all congratulatory messages for my India call-up.

"Honestly, I was shocked. I immediately checked the BCCI’s website and only then believed the news to be true. I was so happy and speechless, because I didn’t expect the call-up. I called my parents to share the news. They were so happy and emotional," Mayank told TimesofIndia.com.

Mayank, who made his IPL debut against MS Dhoni-led CSK last year, revealed that he could not wait to get started with the national team and join up with the rest of the squad led by captain - Virat Kohli.

"I am really excited to play under Virat Kohli's captaincy and also with MS Dhoni. Getting into the Indian team is a very big thing for me. I am going to learn a lot from my seniors. I am looking forward to sharing the dressing room with these legends," Mayank added.