‘I am a swing bowler, I will try to swing the ball’

Talented right-arm pacer Abu Jayed Rahi, who showed promise during the Bangladesh Premier League last year, is known for his ability to swing the ball. The pacer hassaid that instead of focusing on variations or bowling with more pace, he will focus on his swing during Bangladesh's upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan.

With left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman missing from the Bangladesh line-up due to a foot injury, Rahi has an opportunity to make it into the playing eleven when the Tigers face a talented Afghanistan side in the three matches, scheduled for June 3, June 5 and June 7 in Dehradun, India.

Earlier yesterday, Bangladesh coach Courtney Walsh had reiterated that Mustafizur's absence was an opportunity for the others to showcase their talent.

Also Read:Abul Hasan replaces Mustafizur in Tigers' squad

Rahi echoed Walsh's sentiment and said he wanted to perform and play for Bangladesh for a long time.

"Ofcourse, to play in the team for a long time, you have to perform. So, this is a good opportunity for me. This is my target. If I can do well, I will be able to stay with the Bangladesh team for a long time," the 24-year old told reporters in Dehradun today.

Rahi made his T20 debut against Sri Lanka during Bangladesh's two-match T20 series at home in February this year. The paceman showed promise but ended up on the expensive side, conceding 45 runs and grabbing just a wicket.

Asked whether he will try variations – a norm in T20 cricket, Rahi, who managed 18 wickets in last season's BPL to become the second-highest wicket taker, was positive that his ability to swing the ball is what he will be focusing upon.

"Since I am a swing bowler, I will try to swing the ball," Rahi said.

After having a look at the conditions in Dehradun, Rahi felt hopeful that there was something on offer for the pacers.

"There is a bit of grass and the wicket is brand new. So, hopefully there will be advantage for the pacers."