Sunrisers Hyderabad’s New Zealand bowling coach James Franklin believes left-hander T Natarajan is not far away from making a comeback to the Indian team.
James Franklin made these comments in the backdrop of Natarajan missing from India’s 15-man squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. The left-winger was among the possible candidates for the Indian team, but was not considered on the day of the announcement of both the main and reserve squads. Punjab Kings’ Arshdeep Singh has been selected as the team’s only left-arm fast bowler.
What did James Franklin say about Natarajan?
When James Franklin spoke to the media reporters recently, he had some good things to say about T. Natarajan. In IPL 2024, Franklin had the opportunity to work closely with the Tamil Nadu-based bowler and definitely knew more about his abilities. Keeping this in mind, the former New Zealand cricket international claimed that he will soon feature for the Indian team.
James Franklin began by reminding everyone what a treasure India is when it comes to talented cricketers of all ages. He noted that in the midst of such a large crowd, T. Natarajan has only one thing to do and that is to control the things he can.
Based on his observation, the former Mumbai Indians all-rounder admitted that T. Natarajan’s biggest strength lies in his balls. Due to his accuracy in bowling the yorkers continuously, Franklin confirmed that the bowler is a great addition to the Sunrisers Hyderabad team.
Then James Franklin made the most dazzling prediction. Considering Natarajan’s form, Franklin claimed that he is fully capable of making a comeback to the Indian national team. However, in his opinion, this will only be possible if he sticks to the same form throughout IPL 2024.
Franklin stated that discussions on Natarajan’s selection will be held till his further performance. In such a case, his return to the Indian team will not be far away.
“There are just so many good players in India. He can only control what he can. His big strength is obviously his yorker bowling. He is a great asset to us as a team.”
“If he continues like he is and can maintain his form throughout the rest of this IPL, that kind of talk all over India, they tend to look after themselves. If he continues to perform, it will be a win to get back into the Indian team.” “We can’t be too far off,” James Franklin told media reporters.
Hyderabad’s remaining matches in IPL 2024
Sunrisers Hyderabad will be in action later this evening when they take on Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. After this match, Hyderabad only has three matches left to play against Lucknow Super Giants, Guajrat Titans and Punjab Kings on May 8, 16 and 19.
The best thing about the remaining matches is that the Pat Cummins-led side will play their last three matches at home at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.