JAIPUR: it has been two years since the lean, diminutive boy from Jodhpur, Ravi Bishop, had everybody talking about him after his exploits at the 2020 Under - 19 World Cups. While the leg - spinner left many crickets expect 'very impressed', some termed him a 'wizard'. But even before the entire cricket fraternity took notice of him on the world stage during the junior event in January 2020, I PL scouts had their eyes set on Bishop's raw talent.
What followed next? A bidding war in December 2019 at the 2020 I PL auction table between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings, before the latter snapped the youngster for Rs 2 Croce against his base price of Rs 20 lakh.
Things are bigger and better in 2022 for Bishop, who is also on the national selector's radar. At Rs 4 Croce, the new I PL franchise from Lucknow has named the young spinner in its three draft picks.
Ecstatic at the opportunity, while Bishop expressed his gratitude for the continuous support for his two coaches, Shaikh Pa than Ana, Prado Singh Rathole, he was quick to mention Lucknow captain KL Rahul being a factor in the interest shown in him by the new franchise from the north.
"It's a proud moment for me, my coaches and family as I am one of those few players among the world's best picked by the franchise before the mega auction. Air mark larva Han, Rahul BHI né bola hora mere line (I have feeling Rahul must have suggested my name to the Lucknow franchise management). Now my focus is on doing even before for my new I PL team and helping them win games," said Bishop, who has taken 24 wickets at an economy rate of 6.96 in 23 I PL matches so far.
STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM
Having already played under Rahul during his time with Punjab, the leggier with a deceptive googly credits the backing he received there for boosting his confidence.
"I was given an opportunity to play in the very first season, I was picked by the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2020. Throughout my two-year stint with them, I have received immense backing both from captain Rahul BHI, and Anil Mumble sir (the director of cricket operations for PBKS). It was a big exposure for me as a youngster, and it added to my confidence as a bowler," acknowledged the youngster.
Talking about hard work, Bishop, feels he has been lucky to have a strong support system around him.
"No matter what the situation, Shahrukh and Prado Bahia have always stood by me. I can't thank them enough for the way they ensured I did not miss out on my training when everything was shut during the two lockdowns because of Covid-19.
There was hardly any movement allowed, as Jodhpur was an end zone for a pretty long time. I took my essentials and camped at the Spartans Cricket Academy in Jodhpur, which is run by these two coaches. Not even for a single day, I had to miss out on my practice. I feel I am very lucky. My effort to improve needed their support," he said.
HIGHEST EARNING MEMBER IN FAMILY
At 21, Bishop, is the highest earning member in his family, but he does not wish to dwell over his growing bank balance.
"Money matters, but it is more important for any young player to get an opportunity to play at his level and showcase his skill. Pies bad main BHI Kamala JAA Santa Han (money can be earned later as well)," he said.
The leg spinner is counting on Rahul as he gears up to play for Lucknow, in 'the'. I PL.
"With Rahul BHI, leading Lucknow, I feel it will be easier for me to adjust in the new team as I have already played under him," the youngster said.
Not looking beyond the immediate opportunity at hand, Bishop said, "I do not wish to clutter my thinking about the upcoming T20 World Cup selection. The opportunity in front of me is to play for Lucknow, and that is my focus at present. Doing well here will to a lot of extent play a role in what happens next."
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