‘I’ve earned my place in the Indian team’- Hanuma Vihari on years of struggle in domestic cricket.

Cricket in India is rising at an unprecedented rate. With more talented players coming through the ranks than at any time in history, it is getting quite difficult for many to get game time. Many end their career in hopes of getting a chance on the national side. Despite an increase in tournaments numerous still find themselves without match-time.

One such player is Hanuma Vihari, who remains in and out of the Indian Test team for quite some time now. Despite that, however, the 28-year-old has tried to play as many high-level games as possible. His good performance in the County Championship has earned him a place in the Indian Test side against England. The batter also played in the Dhaka Premier League. 

“Honestly, I tried a lot. But, I didn’t get the chance,” Vihari told The New Indian Express. “So I was happy playing in Bangladesh (Dhaka Premier League) and then coming back to Chennai and playing First Division is something I relish. My game develops a lot when playing here because there is pressure when you are playing as a professional. And the wickets and standard of cricket is quite good,” he added. 

The Andhra Pradesh batter says that he has remained patient throughout his cricketing career and grabs as many opportunities as he could get. Speaking of the same he said, “I’d to struggle in domestic cricket for a long time,” Vihari said. “I’ve been performing consistently in the domestic circuit to make it to the national team. So, I know how to be patient in terms of waiting for my opportunities. So that journey itself shows I have been waiting patiently for a chance by performing well for years together. I would say I’ve earned my place in the Indian team.”

The Indian Test side is currently on a tour to England where they play one rescheduled Test match starting on July 1. Rohit Sharma has been infected by COVID-19 and is doubtful for the England Test.