Munaf hoping for India recall

Surat: It has been over two years since Munaf Patel made his India debut but his creaking body has allowed him to play only nine Test matches and 28 One-Dayers. Times though are changing and after being part of the all conquering Rajasthan Royals, Munaf is waiting for his turn.

After winning the IPL title, the Rajasthan Royals had many heroes to call upon on the journey towards the campaign. The inspirational Shane Warne, Graeme Smith, Irfan Pathan, Shane Watson, Asnodkar - all of whom contributed to the team's success but among them somewhere was a forgotten man in Indian cricket - Munaf Patel, who also made an impression.

"IPL experience was very good for me. And the fact that we have won the tournament and also that shane Warne was the captain of our team, hence, it helped us in learning many things like how to make a game plan, etc," said Munaf.

Munaf was one of Shane Warne's major weapons in the tournament; taking 14 wickets in his 15 matches and striking crucial blows whenever his captain turned to him. Munaf is hoping that his intensity through the tournament will help catch the selectors eye.

"I am always hopeful of getting selected but my job is to play cricket and try to bowl well. I don't think too much about the selection. Every game that I play is imporatnt for me," said Munaf.

Once touted as the next great Indian fast bowler; Munaf's career has been affected badly by injuries. But he says that he is now fitter than ever before.

"I never had any issues with my bowling and technique but fitness was a problem area for me. But now I am concentrating on the fitness and I played 15 matches during IPL twenty20 and I didn't face any injury. So, obviously, I am totally fit now," insisted the lad from Gujarat.

So, Munaf waits - playing local cricket even as his colleagues turn out in national colours. However, a stint in county cricket is also on the cards for this 24-year-old.

More Headlines from Specials

• Indian cricketers celebrate nation's Beijing success

• India look to start on positive note

• Younis launches cricket team for disabled

• Has cricket become an individual's game?

• Colombo cafe a delight for cricket lovers