England v India 2014: Naman Ojha called up as replacement for Wriddhiman Saha

Naman Ojha

Madhya Pradesh’s Naman Ojha has been asked to join the Indian squad as a replacement for the injured back-up wicketkeeper-batsman Wriddhiman Saha ahead of the 4th Test against England, which starts on August 7 at Old Trafford. The Investec Test series is currently on level terms, with the home team getting back on track via a thumping 266-run victory at The Rose Bowl in the just concluded Test match.

"Wriddhiman Saha is injured and will soon return to India," said BCCI secretary Sanjay Patel. "Ojha will replace him as the back-up wicketkeeper."

With 2 more Tests to go, Naman is expected to start by August 4 to be there on time.

When Hindustan Times reached the 31-year-old for his comments, he said: "I got the news from Sanjay Pateria. I don't know how to express my feelings. To play a Test match is a matter of great pride for all cricketers. I am extremely lucky to have been selected in the team and if I get the chance to play for India, I will try to give it my best.”

Productive 2014

Naman has been in terrific form of late, notching up scores of 219*, 101* and 110 for India A in the two First-class matches against Australia A in Australia. The Sunrisers Hyderabad glovesman, however, wasn’t picked for the limited overs quadrangular tournament that followed and hence had to return back home after July 16.

When asked if he will make any changes to his batting style to adapt to the English conditions, he said: "I am not worried about variation in condition as if I get a chance, will try to maintain the same batting form."

Naman has 6877 runs to his name at an average of 42.71 in 101 FC matches and has so far represented the country in only 3 international matches: 1 One Day International and 2 Twenty 20s. Having accumulated 835 runs in 7 Ranji 2013-14 matches, the right-hander, who is known for his attacking gameplay, is reaping the benefits of doing the hard yards in the domestic circuit for 12 years now: he made his debut back in 2000/01.

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