His toes being in a “better” condition after being hit by a Jasprit Bumrah delivery during practice, Vijay Shankar is hopeful of his inclusion for India’s game against Afghanistan in Southampton on Saturday.
“Actually, when you play someone like Bumrah, you always expect that (ball landing on the toes). Still, sometimes we do miss... But I’ve got a lot better and hopefully, I’ll be able to play,” Vijay said.
The all-rounder believes he is now ready for any challenge he is likely to face.
Included in line-up as a replacement for the injured Shikhar Dhawan in Manchester against Pakistan, Vijay impressed in his World Cup debut, taking two vital wickets after remaining not out for 15.
The confidence that Vijay had shown capped a whirlwind six months for him, after his ODI debut back in January in Melbourne.
Asked if the Pakistan match could be the catalyst for future success, he said: “Yeah, it definitely gives any player some confidence because that is really needed for any individual.
“The last game gave me some confidence and especially when it comes playing against Pakistan, making my debut against them.
“It was a very special thing for me, performing under pressure and coming out good. The team winning at the end of the day is really important. It felt really good at the end of the day.
“I always look to get better in all three aspects of the game as I know I can keep getting better. I know I can bowl a lot better than what I am bowling even now, so I’m just working on my bowling.
“Whenever I get to a practice session, I make sure I improve a bit at least. I always have a good chat with my bowling coach and try and get better each and every day,” Vijay stressed.
A potential meeting with Sunrisers Hyderabad teammate Rashid Khan awaits on Saturday, and Vijay was quick to warn of the danger posed by the talented leg-spinner.
“Rashid is definitely one of the best bowlers right now in limited-overs cricket and he has done well. For me, having played with him for a couple of years, it’s very important to pick up things from him. Like whenever I bat against him at nets, I try and pick his variations.”
