R Sai Kishore Shines in County Debut, Claims 11 Wickets for Surrey

R Sai Kishore delivered an impressive performance during his debut in the English County Championship, playing for Surrey. The 28-year-old left-arm spinner took a total of **11 wickets** across two matches, showcasing his skills on an international stage.

In his first appearance, Sai Kishore made a significant impact with a four-wicket haul in the drawn match against **Yorkshire** in Scarborough. He followed this with a standout performance against **Durham** in Chester-le-Street, where he claimed seven wickets, including five in the second innings, leading Surrey to a **five-wicket victory**.

Sai Kishore expressed his optimism following these matches, stating that he feels capable of succeeding on various pitches. “I have a lot of belief in my red-ball game. Winning a match in foreign conditions and doing it with a team I was not familiar with gives me a lot of confidence,” he shared in a conversation from England. His prior experience, having played for India in three T20 internationals, adds to his growing confidence.

Leadership and Preparation Fuel Success

Sai Kishore’s leadership skills, coupled with extensive preparation alongside coach **R Ramkumar** in Chennai, facilitated his smooth transition into County cricket. “I see myself as a leader wherever I go. I interacted with the coach and captain regularly to discuss strategies for advancing the game. It was not just about me taking wickets; the captain and coach managed my role effectively,” he explained. His ability to adapt quickly contributed significantly to his success.

Prior to joining Surrey, Sai Kishore refined his bowling action, which had been affected by a series of T20 matches. “Before going to England, I worked with Ramkumar to tweak my action. Batty’s insights were also invaluable,” he noted, acknowledging the support of his teammates and coaching staff.

Surrey captain **Rory Burns** praised Sai Kishore’s contributions to the team. “When you have someone with that quality who can deliver on demand, it is impressive. His ability to control one end on challenging surfaces is outstanding. He brings great energy to the group,” Burns commented after the victory over Durham.

Sai Kishore’s performances have not only bolstered Surrey’s chances in the County Championship but have also provided him with the affirmation of his abilities in foreign conditions. As he continues to enhance his skills in England, his journey serves as an inspiring tale for cricketers aspiring to succeed on a global scale.