Thaindian News

London, July 22 (IANS) England’s left-arm spinner Monty Panesar defended his action of bowling to Sachin Tendulkar at the Lord’s nets in the run-up to the 100th Test match between the two countries that started here Thursday.

The nets session at Lord’s 12 days ago took place without the knowledge of his county, Sussex, or the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Panesar was not required for county duty that weekend and was also not supposed to take any permission from the English board since he does not have a central contract.

“I had a bit of spare time during the Twenty20 and I thought it would be a good opportunity to see how the ball was coming out of my hand. He [Sachin] is obviously a wonderful batsman, one of the best in the world, and a wonderful human being as well. So I thought it would be a chance for me to get some tips for my bowling,” Panesar was quoted as saying by The Daily Telegraph.

“I’ve known him since I took my first Test wicket and the session was a massive benefit to me. It’s valuable for a youngster like me to have the chance to bowl against the best. These things are great opportunities and it gave me a chance to add further development to my game,” Panesar said.

“Earlier in the year, I got some tips from Shane Warne in Australia and that feedback and support is valuable to me. It adds a bit more to my game and gives me confidence.”

Sussex manager Mark Robinson said the net session was not held to help Tendulkar familiarise himself with the sort of deliveries he would expect from English bowlers during the Test series.

“It was a confidence boost to Monty. I don’t think anyone thought about anything else,” said Robinson.