A cricketer from Jammu & Kashmir among the Indian probables for the series against Australia? Thanks to Surendra Singh, it is no longer a pipe dream. The state has traditionally been among the weakest of the teams participating in the Ranji Trophy. But in 2000-2001 they created history of sorts by qualifying for the knock out stage for the first time in 41 years of taking part. And among those playing a leading part in the epoch making feat was the strongly built Surendra Singh. He bagged 18 wickets in the five matches at just over 22 apiece. This got him a place in the North Zone side for the Duleep Trophy.

It was his performance in this premier competition that brought him closer to the national cap. On docile pitches, when batsmen were making merry, Surendra Singh was one of the very few bowling successes. He picked up five for 115 against South Zone and followed it up with four for 80 against West Zone. Besides pace, swing and cut, he showed his willingness to bowl long spells even on shirt front wickets - a healthy attitude for a fast bowling aspirant. Even if he does not make to the final team - the competition is pretty stiff - one is sure the last has not been heard of him. (Partab Ramchand)