Kolkata: Comeback from injuries is always tough, irrespective of the sport. When Bengal lad Ishan Porel had hobbled out of the field after injuring his left foot in India’s group stage match against Australia, many had thought that it was the end of his participation in the U-19 World Cup.
But not only did he comeback, he made history, with some quality bowling and the tall pacer, credits coach Rahul Dravid for this turnaround.
“Everyone supported me and I had the support of my parents, all the way from India. Specially, I would like to give credit to the team members, especially Rahul (Dravid) sir and the doctor and trainer were always there with us. Perhaps, if there wasn’t any support, I wouldn’t have been able to play from the quarters.
“Sharing the same dressing room for so many days with Rahul sir has been a great experience for all of us. He always encouraged us and shared his experiences with us. He has been one of the greatest Indian cricketers and to learn it all from him has been a privilege,” said Ishan on the sidelines of an event in the city on Thursday.
Not only did he just made it to the team but his fiery bowling in all the three matches-the quarter-final against Bangladesh, the semi-final against Pakistan and the final against Australia eased India to their fourth U-19 World Cup title after the triumphs in 2000, 2008 and 2012.
But having crossed the hurdle of U-19 cricket, Ishan, who had made his Ranji Trophy debut for Bengal this season, has already started thinking about the way ahead, with focus on domestic cricket.
“I had started thinking about the way forward after the end of the U-19 World Cup itself because I knew that I had to play competitive cricket after this. I know that this wouldn’t be easy (transition to senior men’s cricket) and I have to start working hard from now.”
Commenting on his return to the team from an injury which generally takes a longer time to heal, the 19-year-old opined that it’s all about hard work and being honest to oneself.
“See, there’s no substitute for hard work. Hard work gives a man a lot of things. Be honest to yourself, keep working hard and have faith in yourself,” Ishan signed off saying.