Rishi Dhawan wants to do well in IPL to impress selectors

Rishi Dhawan

Himachal Pradesh all-rounder Rishi Dhawan, who became the second-most costliest uncapped Indian player in the Indian Premier League history after Kings XI Punjab paid a hefty Rs 3 crore for his services, eyes to perform well in the IPL to impress the national selectors.

“I have done well in the domestic circuit this season. I believe my good showing in the IPL will act as a stepping stone to get into the Indian team,” Dhawan told PTI. “I am looking forward to this year’s IPL to further prove my credentials.”

Dhawan, 24, was the highest wicket-taker in the Ranji Trophy this season with a total of 49 wickets.

“I was confident of getting picked by some franchise. I took 49 wickets in eight games in the domestic season this year and contributed with the bat as well. My experience with Mumbai Indians also made the other franchises interested in me. I am happy with how things panned out at the auction. I am looking forward to give my 100 per cent for KXIP and make them champions this year,” he added.

Dhawan started his IPL career with Kings XI Punjab in 2008 and was later signed up by the Mumbai Indians in 2013.

“It’s good to be back. I am looking forward to the opportunity. It’s time to perform for Punjab.”

Dhawan is primarily a fast bowling all-rounder but is pretty handy with the bat in the middle-order. “I am an all-rounder. I can bat as well. My job would be to perform as an all-rounder.”

When asked whether the pressure of the price tag could get to him, Dhawan said: “I don’t think so. I will play my natural game and give my 100 per cent. I don’t think I would be under any kind of pressure to perform. On a lighter note, I was not expecting that much amount for me.”