Talking to SBS Urdu, cricketer Arslan Khan from Melbourne says that it is always a great experience to challenge the international players when they are preparing for big games.
“I have been a net bowler for many cricket stars including Hashim Amla, Kumar Sangakarra, Keven Pieterson, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell and Misbah ul Haq.
The international players are looking for good net sessions so they are in good form when they go to the ground.”
Leg spinner Arsalan Khan with international cricketers Source: Supplied
Mr Khan says the net bowler tries to bring out the best in a player by bowling quality deliveries in the nets.
“There are few overs that I bowl at each net session, but in those overs I use all my special deliveries to test the batsman.”
Who is a net bowler?
During international tours, the local teams provide players as per the requirements of the team to have net sessions with the international cricketers to practice and adapt to local conditions.
India is currently touring Australia and playing a cricket series this summer.
On the query about his experience in the net session with the Indian batsman Virat Kohli, Mr Khan says Kohli is a great batsman with excellent technique and ability.
“I bowled him normal leg spinners, few shooters and googlies, but Virat played them very well.
I tried to give him tough time and challenged him with quality deliveries but he played each delivery on merit and with authority.
No wonder he is the top batsman in the world.”
“As a net bowler, I had sessions with him in 2015 World Cup and now for Australia vs India series.”
Leg spinner Arsalan Khan with Former Pakistani Captain Misbah ul Haq. Source: Supplied
"The purpose of these net sessions is simply practice and preparation. Although, there is no real pressure on the player, but it certainly helps him to get ready for the big stage."
Mr Khan joined Melbourne Stars as a net bowler in 2013 and is now waiting for his break at the Big Bash League and the international stage.
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