|| Desk Report ||

Ravi Bishnoi – the U-19 World Cup star of India is now all set to play for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) in his debut Indian Premier League (IPL) season which is slated to start from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). While a few days left for the cash-rich league, Bishnoi has revealed that he has been trying to learn from his idol Anil Kumble, who is the head coach at Kings XI Punjab.

"He (Kumble) is one of the greatest spinners in the world, so I am trying to learn a lot of things from him and his experience. Whether it's his match temperament, skills, how he handled the match situation, how he bowled the flippers, I am trying to learn all of that from him. Right now I have time to learn from him and this is the best opportunity for me," Bishnoi said to IANS in an interview from Dubai.

"Kumble sir has told me to bowl according to the match situation and do what I think I can do," he further added.

Bishnoi also praised KL Rahul, who will lead the team for the first time in the league and he believes that they have a chance to win the title this year.

"Rahul is a good player as well as a good captain. In the nets, he goes to every player and talks and shares his experience. So far, it has been great talking to him and I am excited to play under his captaincy. The setup of the team is also very good. All the players are looking in good rhythm. Our team is a contender for the title," he said.

While Punjab will begin their tournament against Delhi Capitals on September 20, the youngster thinks this year's IPL will be challenging for the players due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"IPL is a big stage where the biggest players of world participate. So it is the most difficult cricket league in the world. Due to Covid-19, it has become more difficult because you always have to stay vigilant, both inside and outside the field, so that nothing untoward happens. So it's a little challenging than before," said Bishnoi.