How much did it take to make the transition to a higher level of cricket, physically and mentally?
Actually, I never played first division cricket till I came to Mumbai. The first time when I ever took a cricket ball was when I was 17. Before that I used to play with the tennis ball. That was a club match in Mumbai, Kanga league. The first season was very tough for me, because it was a sudden shift from a tennis ball to a cricket ball and I was not ready physically also. Before that when I used to play tennis ball matches it used to be at the most, 10 to 12 overs. To last a whole day was demanding. I used to practice two sessions. I knew I had started cricket late, and obviously had to put more effort. I was struggling initially in all the matches, I was bowling half volleys. But everyone was still impressed because I was able to move the ball and I was able to bowl sharpish. Those strengths I had. I knew there was something in me, but it had to be well defined. For someone living in Srirampur, how did Mumbai actually come about? I had finished my 12th and I had requested my father
