Meet Badal Bhol, Odia bowler who helped Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma sharpen their skills during net practice

The ‘Men in Blue’ chased down an impressive 305 after a scintillating century from Hitman Rohit Sharma for a thumping victory against England in the second ODI at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on Sunday, February 9.

Even as King Kohli failed to display his charisma, India opener Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Axar Patel also contributed well to the team. With this win, India has now clinched the three-match ODI series with the final match scheduled to be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

However, the win could not have been possible without the assistance of an Odia lad. Yes, you read that right!  Team India engaged in intensive practice sessions, focusing meticulously on both batting and bowling. Key players, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant, honed their skills, making the most of the renowned venue's facilities.

As the Indian cricket team sharpened their skills during the net practice session, it was Odia youth Badal Bhol who bowled to them. A unique opportunity arose for Badal Bhol, a pace bowler from the Bhubaneswar Oscar Club, as he joined the nets session, bowling to India's top cricketing stars.

Bhol brought his regional expertise to the fore, challenging the Indian batsmen with his deliveries. His presence at the nets highlights the deep cricket culture embedded in India, where budding talents regularly engage with seasoned players.