Saurabh Netravalkar knows the rigours of Indian cricket circuit all too well, having been a part of the set-up in the past. The USA fast bowler, who has played the U19 World Cup for India previously, shared his excitement at the prospect of facing his previous team which has players he has played with.
Saurabh Netravalkar has become an overnight star after guiding USA to a famous victory against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2024. In a conversation with Times of India, Netravalkar disclosed his super over plans, him juggling cricket and his job at Oracle as a software engineer, and on his emotions playing against India.
Super-over emotions
On being asked if he knew he would bowl the super over beforehand, Netravalkar said, “It wasn’t pre-decided and only after the regulation 20 overs did skipper (Monank Patel) and coach (Stuart Law) informed me about it. I am thankful to them for showing faith in me.”
“The plan was simple that I will try and bowl wide yorkers to the right handers and try to keep it out of his range as the boundary on that side was bigger. First ball the batter shifted and didn’t get a wide and second ball, he stayed rooted and connected, and then, I got a couple of wides, as I was trying for wide lines,” Netravalkar said.
Juggling dual role of techie and a cricketer
What does it take for Saurabh Netravalkar to perform well for USA? Good practice? Perfect planning? You would be wrong if you’re thinking on those lines. The answer: Supportive bosses and remote working opportunities while on tour! Saurabh Netravalkar highlighted how his company Oracle helps him juggle the dual role of playing cricket and working as a software engineer.
“The best part is that I have got very supportive bosses at Oracle and I am allowed to work remotely when I am on tour, playing for the United States.
“So on match days, I am excused from work. But then there are scheduled project meetings which warrants my presence and then I work my practice schedule accordingly. I would also thank US Cricket board as they also are flexible if I have meetings lined up,” Saurabh said.
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Emotional reunion against India
Saurabh Netravalkar has been a part of the Indian cricket circuit, having played for the country in the U19 World Cup. However, this time he will be gunning for glory against his previous team when India play USA on June 12. He expressed his emotions about the match.
“I know all of them and Surya (Yadav) and myself have played together for Mumbai U15s, U-17, U-19s. It is so good to see what he has achieved and it will be nice to catch up with them. Playing against India would be truly emotional,” Saurabh said.
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