Deepak Chahar picks the toughest format to play in

Ahead of the 2nd ODI against West Indies, Indian seamer Deepak Chahar stated that ODI cricket is the toughest format to play in, over T20s and Tests.

“In my opinion, ODI cricket is difficult as in T20Is you just have to contain. In Tests, you have to go in with an attacking mindset. But in ODIs you have to take wickets and contain runs. I think ODI is more difficult than both Tests and T20s,” Chahar told reporters on the eve of the second ODI.

“When I played Ranji trophy, I used to bowl at 125 kmph and I suffered injuries as I was trying to increase my pace. In international cricket, you need to bowl at 140 to trouble the batsmen. I changed quite a few things in my diet and action,” he added.

Chahar also was of the view that rising through the ranks after playing Ranji Trophy is the most difficult as a player needs to play a number of games to get the attention of the selectors.

“I was struggling for my Ranji trophy side as I changed my action. The path for coming into India’s setup through the Ranji trophy is tough as you have to play many matches to make the cut. But you can play a bit earlier after making a foray into IPL,” Chahar said.

Chahar, who has impressed in his short career with the national team said that the next six months would be tough for him, and he needs to pitch in with consistent showings if he wants to book a spot for the T20 World Cup in Australia.

“Obviously, the next six months are very important. Every cricketer dreams of playing each format for the team, initially I was playing just the T20 format, but now I have got the chance in ODIs so it’s very good for me and I hope to keep on performing for the side,” Chahar said.

“My main focus is to remain fit, I want to ensure that I maintain fitness levels so that I get to play each and every game for the side,” he added.