India's young pacer Shardul Thakur, who has been included in the 17-man squad for the Test crcket series against the West Indies, said he applies the bouncer as a surprise weapon and to bring variation in his bowling.
The second and final practice match ahead of the first Test, starting July 21, too ended in a draw on Saturday with the West Indies Board President's XI scoring 223 for six and 180 in their two innings, while India scored 364 in their first innings.
Thakur impressed in the second practice game picking up 1-50 in the 22 overs he bowled in the match. "It was always my dream to be part of the Test team, and being with the Indian team where other players have gained certain experience, you get to learn a lot from them. I am trying to learn as much as I can, because it will only be good for my progress in the future," Thakur told reporters after the game.
"I did bowl a few bouncers and almost got a wicket with one in the second innings. Even in the first innings, the wicket I got was off a bouncer. I use it as a surprise weapon and it is more of a variation in my bowling," he said.
"The senior guys and Anil bhai have given me enough confidence, so now it is up to me to go ahead and perform."
