Dhawan hopes ton will help stake claim

Cracked 110 to help Delhi beat Englishmen

Having blasted a century to lead Delhi to a shock victory over the visiting English team in their second practice game on Tuesday, Shikhar Dhawan feels that his knock couldn’t have come at a better time.

Virender Sehwag has been dropped from the national squad on the basis of non-performance and Gautam Gambhir, too, looks to be on sticky wicket. And all this has created the perfect opportunity for fringe players like Dhawan to stake their claim for a call-up to the national team.

“I have been much more consistent this season, notching up six centuries. Although I could have scored a couple of tons more in the Ranji Trophy for Delhi, better late than never. The fact that I scored it against a quality international opposition gives me more pleasure. I wish to keep doing the good work so that I am in the eyes of the selectors,” he told MAIL TODAY . Dhawan feels that the present lot of selectors have definitely opened up the doors for youngsters who are consistent performers.

“Look at Cheteshwar Pujara.He is the biggest example of the selectors backing performance to the core. And that definitely motivates me more. I know that if I can keep performing consistently, I will surely find a place in the national team,” he said.

Also read:
Delhi stun England in tour game


Having been given an opportunity against West Indies last year, he came up with a solitary half-century in the five-ODI series. But Dhawan says he has learnt from his past mistakes.

“This season I made it a point not to repeat my earlier mistakes. I have analysed where things have gone wrong for me and looked to rectify them. Hopefully I can carry on the good show and earn my place back in the Indian team,” he signed off.

Matches

MORE TOP STORIES TODAY