IPL 2009 star Kamran Khan is England’s net bowler

IPL 2009 star Kamran Khan is England's net bowler

There was a known figure amongst the net bowlers on the eve of the fourth India-England ODI at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. Kamran Khan, who shot into fame after turning the match in favour of Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the final over of the match against Kolkata Knight Riders during the Indian Premier League (IPL) II, surprised everyone when he came to bowl to the English players in the nets.

Kamran Khan (left) bowls at the nets on Saturday.
Pic/ Suresh KK

Even England's bowling coach David Saker and right-hand batsman Ravi Bopara were shocked to see Kamran in the nets. "They did not expect me to be there. But I don't mind it (to be a net bowler). In fact, I was happy to bowl to the English team. I was eager to bowl to good batsmen and this was the best opportunity," Kamran told SUNDAY MiD DAY. Kamran became one of those rare players to be signed by an IPL team before making his first-class debut.

Nicknamed Tornado
He immediately earned the 'tornado' tag from Rajasthan Royals skipper Shane Warne. Kamran though was later reported for a suspect action. He rectified it by going to the Centre of Excellence in Australia. Sahara Pune Warriors signed him during the IPL IV players' auction.

Like always, Kamran bowled his heart out in the nets on Saturday. He also pitched one short, which England's Tim Bresnan failed to judge and suffered a groin injury. The blow was so nasty that he immediately fell to the ground. "It was a great learning experience. Overall, I am happy with the way I bowled. It has given me a much-needed confidence booster," he signed off.