CWC'19: Learnt a lot, say Chahar and Avesh on their stinct with team India

Reserve bowlers Deepak Chahar and Avesh Khan on Wednesday said that they got to learn a lot in their stint with the 'Men in Blue' ahead of India's ICC Men's Cricket World Cup opening match against South Africa in Southampton.

Deepak, Avesh and Khaleel Ahmed are the three net bowlers who travelled with team India to provide practice to the batsmen. While Deepak and Avesh will be returning to India, Khaleel will remain with the team.

In a BCCI video, Deepak and Chahar discussed their respective experience. The right-arm pacer Deepak, who played for Chennai Super Kings in the 2019 IPL, said he enjoyed practicing with Virat Kohli and his boys as the ball was swinging.

"It was a good experience, especially the last two-three days for practice. It feels good whenever you get a chance to travel with team India. You get to learn a lot. The conditions were different here," said Chahar.

"When I had come to the UK last year, it was very hot. But this time, the season is starting early so the weather is good. For me, it was really good as the ball was swinging. So I enjoyed practicing," he added.

Avesh, who represented Delhi Capitals in the IPL, pointed out that for batsmen the situation was challenging. He also said that his focus was to improve and help the batsmen prepare.

"I loved coming here with the team. Earlier also I have been with the team to South Africa and the UAE. It was a good experience for me. Here, the weather is good. So I enjoyed bowling. For batsmen, it was a challenging situation. I got to learn a lot," Avesh said.

Earlier, team India on May 31 had a fun day, enjoying paintball. Reflecting on it, Avesh said, "It was a fun bonding activity (paintball). The entire team was together. We had fun and loved the banter. It was sort of get together."

Chahar added, "In team activities, you get to know other players. The more you spend time with your teammates, the more you bond with them. It is everywhere not only with team India. In small tournaments as well, the team which has better bonding obviously does better."

India will next meet Australia in its second World Cup match on June 9 at The Oval, London.