Felt like criminal but treated it like overcoming injury: Discarded Pragyan Ojha on rehab days

Ojha also mentioned the motivational role played by legendary cricketer VVS Laxman during his tough days.

New Delhi: Pragyan Ojha, who is on a road to redemption after being barred for a doubtful action by the ICC, went through a lot when he was remodeling his action during his rehab days.

Bengal left-arm spinner, who is back with his new action and even claimed 34 wickets in the on-going Ranji season thus far, said that he felt like a criminal during the rehab days.

“Everyone says chucking, chucking. They used to look at me during my rehab and go, “Dekho chucking karta tha. Let’s see what he does now.” You feel like you’re a criminal but end of the day you should treat it like overcoming an injury,” Ojha told The Indian Express.

Ojha didn't forget to mention the motivational role played by legendary cricketer VVS Laxman during those tough days.

“The biggest role was played by Laxman bhai. He was in constant touch and kept talking to me, saying don’t ever let negative thoughts get to you. Just focus and keep bowling. That’s what helped me a lot. It’s like coming back from an injury. You don’t know what will happen next. Will you bowl the same way? Initially the confusion is there. Luckily I haven’t lost those original strengths of mine.