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Intikhab backs Mongia's inclusion

"He is a good all-rounder now. His inclusion will give India more bowling options," said his state coach and former Pakistan captain.

Published on: Jul 22, 2006, 18:03:00 IST
None | By , London
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Dinesh Mongia's recall to the Indian team has received a thumbs-up from his state coach and former Pakistan captain Intikhab Alam who said the left-arm spin of the Punjab all-rounder would add variety to the bowling department.

HT Image
HT Image

Intikhab, himself a leg-spinner and who coached Mongia at the Punjab state team, said Mongia has worked on his bowling and has emerged as an economical bowler.

"He has developed his bowling ability as left arm spinner effectively in the last few years. The most important aspect about Mongia's bowling is that he bowls economically," Intikhab told BBC Sport.

"He is a good all-rounder now. His inclusion will give India more bowling options."

Intikhab also said that Mongia could play a vital role in the team.

"I have faith in his potential and his ability to perform well for the country. He is going to play an important role in the team," he said.

"His plus point is his batting, and of course his fielding. That's where the all-rounder comes in."

Mongia made his ODI debut way back in 2001 but could not become a permanent member of the side. His last one dayer was against Pakistan in April 2005.

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