By CricketCountry Staff
Samit Patel, who was handed his first call-up for the two-match series, said he is ready to prove himself in order to win his first Test cap against Sri Lanka later this month.
Published: Mar 13, 2012, 10:42 AM (IST)
Edited: Mar 13, 2012, 10:42 AM (IST)
Samit Patel said it’s a massive boost for him having never been in the England Test squad before and he is very excited to show everyone what he can really do and take any opportunities he is given © Getty Images
By CricketCountry Staff
London: Mar 13, 2012
Samit Patel, who was handed his first call-up for the two-match series, said he is ready to prove himself in order to win his first Test cap against Sri Lanka later this month.
“This is a different thing for me because I’ve never been in a Test squad before and I’m quite excited really,” Patel was quoted saying by the Guardian.
“It’s a massive boost for me having never been in the squad before and I’m very excited to show everyone what I can really do and take any opportunities I’m given.
“One of my goals is to play Test cricket. I’ve always wanted to do that as well as one-day cricket. I want to play all formats for England.
“It’s easy to get here, the toughest bit is staying in the squad and staying in the team. I’m ready to come in and bat where I’m asked to bat and do the job with the ball. I’m comfortable with the role I’ve been set.”
The England all-rounder’s career had come to a grinding halt due to fitness and weight concerns but he now feels he has the right attitude towards his off-field regime.
“Fitness is a key factor and everyone has to work hard on their fitness – some more than others,” he said.
“It’s probably an issue that will stay with me, but I’m not frustrated. The more work you do, the better you feel. Hopefully I am doing the right things now.”
