July 9: ``It was my happiest moment when I learnt of my selection in the Indian team for the Asia Cup,'' said Nilesh Kulkarni, one of the two new faces in the squad bound for Sri Lanka.``I was having lunch at the hotel when I was told of my selection. I was thrilled. For a long time I wanted to play for India and this time I knew I could make it to the side,'' said Kulkarni.The 6'4" tall Mumbai left-arm spinner was in the reckoning for the Independence Cup tournament but had to wait as Sunil Joshi was given preference.What makes Nilesh a different bowler from the others is his height which helps him generate extra bounce. And his flatter trajectory would help him tie down the batsmen in the one-day games.Nilesh, who made his first class debut for Mumbai three seasons ago, has captured 100 wickets from 26 matches with 93 wickets in 21 Ranji Trophy ties.A product of the Joshi High School, Dombivli, Kulkarni revealed that his parents have supported him in his endeavours. ``But for their support, I would not have been playing cricket. They have helped me at every stage of my cricketing career,'' said the 25-year-old.Nilesh, who had his formal cricket coaching at the BCA Mafatlal Bowling Scheme for three years, honed his skills under the watchful eyes of former England speedster Frank Tyson, Balwinder Singh Sandhu and Jayantilal Kenia.He idolises former Indian captain and all-rounder Ravi Shastri. ``I was very much impressed by his bowling and consider him my inspiration,'' said Kulkarni.Employed with Elf Lubricants, he represents the National Cricket Club in the local league. ``I loved playing for my college (Jhunjunwala), but with the busy schedule I am not able to turn out for my college,'' said the lanky spinner.
