Manav Suthar heads to Warwickshire after stellar Test debut; Excited for new challenge in county cricket

JAIPUR: It has been a whirlwind week for Manav Suthar. Fresh off a dream Test debut where his classical action and sharp revs took center stage, the 23-year-old left-arm spinner from Rajasthan is now embarking on his next assignment. With his bags packed, he is heading to Warwickshire for a stint in county cricket. In a quick phone chat with TOI while waiting at the airport before boarding the flight, he opened up about his memorable debut among things. Excerpts:

On his County cricket selection:

Right now, I am heading to London to play county cricket for Warwickshire. I received a call from them and the decision was made a few days ago, and everything was finalised. It’s a great opportunity for me, so I am very happy.

On his Test debut against Afghanistan:

It definitely feels like a dream debut. Whenever I think about it or reflect on it, that’s exactly the feeling I get. It was a really good experience.

On being in the Indian team environment:

Everyone backed me a lot. Shubman (Gill) and the coaches all told me to just play my natural game and not think about anything extra. They told me to enjoy the game, back my skills, and back my game, assuring me that everything else would go well. Things were very relaxed and they supported me beautifully. Even on the field, Shubman supported me a lot regarding which field setting would work best for a particular batsman and what line to bowl.

On his bowling gameplan in Tests:

I believe understanding which ball is best suited for a particular situation and wicket is the most important thing. Whichever wicket we play on, figuring out the best length and the best pace for that surface is what I consider my USP.

On his high bowling revs and the secret behind them:

I think spot bowling is the key. The more you practice spot bowling, the more your accuracy improves. When the body alignment is right and you get good revs, only then does the ball land on the right spot. So, I believe the spot bowling practice I did, and continue to do, has a major impact.

On his mindset regarding future nat’l team selections:

I just focus on what best I can do for the team, whether it's batting, bowling or fielding. My focus is entirely on how my presence can benefit and help the team.