Curran content to be playing IPL for now as he chases World Cup dream
Curran, who had a breakout Test season last year, is currently engaged with Kings XI Punjab in the Indian league’s 12th season. He was the most expensive overseas purchase, at INR 7.2 crore (1 million USD approx.), thanks to a bidding war between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Punjab. It was reward for a terrific rookie year in Test cricket, where he was named England’s Player of the Series in the Test matches against India at home.
“It’s a dream for every player to represent his country in the World Cup,” Curran told The Times of India. “I also want to represent my country in the mega tournament. For now, I am focusing on the IPL. I want to give my best.”
Curran also sounded optimistic of England’s chances at the tournament. England have never lifted the World Cup, but are heavy favourites to do so this time. They are playing at home and are a formidable one-day unit, ranked No.1 in the MRF Tyres ICC ODI Team Rankings.
“There is amazing one-day cricket being played by England,” Curran said. “The way England are playing in ODIs, the chances are bright. England playing at home are a strong side, and hope they have better luck at the World Cup.
“They have a bunch of talented cricketers, and I wish they carry on the same show at the World Cup. It will be amazing if they win the title in front of the home crowd.”
As he prepares to be a part of that pursuit, Curran is getting to share the dressing room with some of the world’s top international cricketers, and is getting valuable game time and experience in a highly competitive league such as the IPL.
Curran was nine years old when the IPL came into existence, in 2008. Since then, he has come a long way to now being team-mates with the likes of Chris Gayle, KL Rahul and R Ashwin.
“I was playing cricket with my father in the backyard of my house when the IPL started,” he said. “I was learning the game at that point. I was watching big stars hitting the ball, taking wickets, and doing some great fielding on the television screen.
“I am really excited to be a part of the IPL. I really look forward to playing some good cricket and sharing the dressing room with the best players in the world.
“Punjab have a talented bunch of boys. It is a well-balanced side. I have shared net sessions with these players. I am sure I will learn a lot from players around the world. We have a great captain in Ashwin. He is a good leader. He did well for Punjab last year and I am sure he will guide Punjab to the title this year.”