Dinda surprised at inclusion

Bengal fast bowler Ashok Dinda said he was surprised after being included in the 14-member Rest of India squad for the Irani Trophy.

"I was quite surprised initially, but moments later I realised that I was approaching my childhood dream," he told Kolkata-based daily the Telegraph. "It feels nice when things are getting brighter with each passing day. I am happy and want to work harder to make this chance count."

Dinda, 24, said he was disappointed after failing to make it to the India A squad for the tri-series against Australia A and New Zealand A beginning September 16. "I know my performances weren't that good recently. I was bit upset after being dropped from the India A ODI side. I am thankful and really excited that I have my chance now."

Dinda made his first-class debut for Bengal in the 2005-06 season and has 45 first-class wickets from 16 matches at an average of 39.15. But, he came to the fore with his impressive performance for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL where he picked up 9 wickets from 13 matches at 28.88.

The fast bowler attributed much of his success to his Kolkata Knight Riders team-mates in the IPL. "Obviously their advice has changed my thinking altogether. After the IPL, I would like to point out that I am a more mature player."