Gurjapneet Singh ready to play for India A before Tamil Nadu 50-over debut

CHENNAI: It is not often that a player makes the India A 50-over side before playing a single match in that format for his state. But fast-rising left-arm medium-pacer Gurjapneet Singh could achieve this unique feat after being picked for the upcoming three-match one-day series against Australia A in Kanpur.

While Tamil Nadu’s Gurjapneet has played a handful of first-class matches – which also includes games for South Zone in the Duleep Trophy – and T20s, he is yet to make an appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. However, the 26-year-old has shown and done enough in a short span to get the nod from the selectors for 50-over cricket.

“I was not surprised with the call-up. The basics of red-ball and white-ball cricket are the same. I know that there are differences, but if I have the skills, I will be able to adapt. It is not a big deal. I am just excited for what is ahead,” Gurjapneet, who has risen remarkably since his Ranji debut in October last year, told TOI on Monday.

“I started this journey only last year. I have come here in a year’s time, so I am proud of what I have been doing. My journey is only getting better,” said Gurjapneet.

The ride so far has not been a bed of roses for the medium-pacer. The left-armer suffered from injuries – especially groin problems – in the last 10 months, missing the Vijay Hazare Trophy, second half of the Ranji season and the IPL (with Chennai Super Kings).

“As fast bowlers, we have a heavy workload, so it is tough to play back-to-back tournaments that are long. I was recovering from niggles and groin issues before and during the IPL. I will have to consider those (injuries) as part of my game. I should take care of my body in a good way. All these ups and downs are part of life. These things can make you stronger and tougher day by day,” said the Ludhiana-born player.

Gurjapneet took the setbacks in his stride to make a roaring return at the start of the ongoing season. After being rested for the Buchi Babu red-ball tournament, he picked up 10 wickets in two matches (three innings) for South Zone in the just-concluded Duleep Trophy.

“I felt better after playing league cricket in Chennai (he bagged 10 wickets in four innings for Vijay CC in the TNCA first division). With good performances in the Duleep Trophy, I believe that I have got my rhythm back,” said Gurjapneet, who is now part of a BCCI CoE programme for pacers.