Following an amazing season in the Indian Premier League 2024 with the Delhi Capitals, Khaleel Ahmed was selected as one of India’s travelling reserves for the just-ended T20 World Cup. Later, the bowler was included in India’s squad for the five-match Twenty20 International Series against Zimbabwe. In the series, he took three wickets at an economy of 6.81 in three matches.
The 26-year-old said he immediately found his rhythm and adapted to the circumstances and was really pleased with his performance, especially after taking two wickets in the third Twenty20 International. In addition, Khaleel discussed his lengthy absence from the national team, how much he missed the locker room, and how happy he is to be back in T20Is after a five-year absence.
Since I have a good rhythm to my bowling and have adjusted to the circumstances, I must admit that I am really pleased with my performances. I am pleased that I was able to do well as well. I missed this dressing room a lot when I wasn’t a part of it, thus for me, this series is everything. Thus, I am thrilled to be a member of this dressing room and to be representing India; the happiness I feel is indescribable,” Khaleel said to Sony Sports.
Very pleased with my ability to perform yorkers: Khaleel Ahmed
Khaleel talked candidly about his observations and learnings from the T20 World Cup. The pacer from Rajasthan was honing his yorker technique when he was practicing with the first team. He said that playing games relieved him of tension and allowed him to train properly, working on his yorkers and cutters during that time.
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“Because there was no pressure to play games when I was in the reserves during the World Cup, I focused a lot on improving my bowling. During that period, Khaleel worked hard on honing his cutters and yorkers. “I am really pleased with the way I can perform yorkers and the spin and rotation I am getting (on the slower ones),” Khaleel remarked.