VIDARBHA’S latest addition to the Indian Test and ODI team, Nagpur all-rounder Harsh Dubey brushed aside any talks of him replacing any particular player in the Indian cricket team as he touched down at the Nagpur airport after completing his Indian Premier League assignment with Sunrisers Hyderabad, on Thursday. The 23-year-old spinner, who is one of the most promising all-rounders from the stable of left-arm orthodox spinners and left-handed batters, has got a maiden call-up for both oneoff Test and three-match ODI series against Afghanistan next month. “Feeling amazing as expected, it is a huge deal to be selected in Indian cricket team and it is a dream come true. I feel it is the biggest opportunity for any cricketer to represent his country. It is massive,” said Dubey while interacting with ‘The Hitavada’. Dubey is known for his exceptional ability to generate significant turn and control, he operates as a lower-order finisher with the bat. He seemed motivated to continue his form as an all-rounder. “Obviously, I look at my position as an all-rounder as I have played as one throughout my career,” he said. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had clarified that Ravindra Jadeja is only being rested for the one-off Test against Afghanistan and remains India’s undisputed No 1 Test spinner.

 

But Dubey said he is not looking to replace anyone. “I don’t think so. I am not looking to replace anyone in the India team. I have worked hard on myself and my skills and have created this opportunity for myself. So, I won’t say I will be replacing anyone. This is huge deal for me and that is it.” Retained in the Sunrisers Hyderabad squad at the price of Rs 30 lakh, Dubey was instrumental in his team’s run up to the Eliminator. He returned with best figure of 3-12 against Delhi Capitals in just 2 overs. This season was his first full season at the IPL. “This was the first full IPL season for me, it was a huge pump for my skills and also I got to polish my talent in front of world-class players,” said Dubey, who picked up 8 wickets in 8 IPL games. On the preparations for the upcoming matches, Dubey said he will take a day off to spend time with his family and then storm back to training. “I am not going to storm into practice from today, will take a breather for today and will start training from tomorrow,” he explained. Dubey gave credit to his parents for their support in this journey. “I am very thankful to my parents for always supporting me and staying by my side through ups and downs. I am always striving on doing better for my team. If the youth is inspired by me then I will only ask them to become a team player over all and always help your team win matches,” he signed off.