NEW DELHI: Mayank Yadav and Nitish Kumar Reddy admitted to feeling nervous ahead of their India debuts in the first T20 International against Bangladesh, but said skipper Suryakumar Yadav's reassuring words helped keep them calm.
Mayank, the 21-year-old fast bowler, made his debut on Sunday after recovering from a recurring abdominal strain that limited him to just four IPL matches this year. He impressed with figures of 1/21 from his four overs.
Nitish, also 21, made an impact by staying unbeaten on 16 from 15 balls, helping India secure a commanding seven-wicket win in the series opener.
"He (Suryakumar) gives you freedom. When I was taking the run-up, he was telling me 'do what you feel, what you feel best'. So that's very important for any fast bowler, especially when you're making your debut," Mayank told BCCI.TV.
Reflecting on his debut after a long injury layoff, Mayank became emotional. "It's a great moment because I am coming from an injury. I was a bit nervous, like I was telling myself, don't stress yourself. When I found out I was going to play, a complete flashback of the last four months came in front of my eyes."
Mayank started his international career with a maiden over and credited bowling coach Morne Morkel for his development. "It felt good. I wasn't thinking about bowling a maiden over, just living in the moment. I've been working with him (Morkel) for the last three years, so it's easy for me. He knows what's best for me."
Nitish echoed the sentiment, calling his debut a dream-come-true moment. "Playing for India is a big moment. Obviously, there was nervousness, but I enjoyed it. It was a proud moment for me and my family."
"Surya is very calm and cool, doing fabulous captaincy, not putting any pressure on us. He gave us that license to play freely, which any youngster would appreciate from their captain," he added.
The second T20 of the series will take place in New Delhi on Wednesday.
