‘I got the call as soon as…’ – Mahesh Pithiya reveals that he rejected Australia’s call to become net bowler
Mahesh Pithiya (Source: Twitter)
The Baroda-based offspinner Mahesh Pithiya recently made headlines as he declined a huge offer made to him by the Australian cricket board and the Australian team management. The Australian cricket board, Cricket Australia recently requested and offered Mahesh Pithiya a position of the net bowler for the team for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 which will be hosted by India itself.
However, the young off spinner Mahesh Pithiya whose action resembles that of India’s ace off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, simply declined the offer considering his commitment to the Indian domestic cricket. Mahesh Pithiya told the media that he got the call from Cricket Australia as soon as Ravichandran Ashwin was selected for the tournament on the last date of the squad announcement.
“It was certainly an exciting offer, but then, I am also part of the Baroda set-up for the domestic season that begins next month. So, I thought about it, spoke to our coach and informed them that it won’t be possible for me to join the camp this time around,” said Mahesh Pithiya.
Mahesh Pithiya on declining Cricket Australia’s offer
“As soon as the BCCI announced Ravichandran Ashwin as the replacement for Axar, I got the call. It is always exciting to work with international teams, but my priority is domestic cricket. I have come so far because of playing for Baroda and ahead of a long season, I thought I should focus on my game and not join the Australian team,” said Mahesh Pithiya.
While talking about his selection in the squad, Ravichandran Ashwin said,“I honestly wasn’t thinking about being here (talking about his late selection for the World Cup). Enjoying the game has been my prime motto for the last four to five years and I would like to do that again in this tournament. Pressure is of paramount importance for most players in this tournament. Being in a good space and training to enjoy the game will hold me in good stead i reckon. Want to enjoy the tournament. I don’t know if I have kept saying this, this could be my last World Cup for India. For me, enjoying the tournament is more important.”
