Bahutule eyes September return

Maharashtra Herald July 13, 2007

BY SUHRID BARUA
suhridb@sakalherald.com
Pune: Injuries can happen to any cricketer. But often a recovery path is crucial in shaping the career of a player. Sairaj Bahutule, Maharashtra Ranji skipper for the last two seasons, is in the middle of a rehab after undergoing an operation on his bowling arm and knows the essence of taking things easy.
“My rehabilitation process has come off well so far. I had this operation in April last and my doctors are pleased with my recovery,” Bahutule told the Herald yesterday.
The former India leg-spinning all-rounder revealed that the healing process in the post-operation period has given him enough encouragement to signal an early return to competitive cricket.
“Normally, an operation of this nature takes about six months to be in playing condition. But my progress has been nice and fine. I’m targeting a return to action at least by mid-September,” Bahutule exuded hope.
He said he would be working with the team’s physio on the sidelines of the Ranji probables camp. “It would help me fast-forward my comeback to competitive cricket,” he says with a smattering of excitement
The 34-year-old, who figured in 2 Tests and 8 one-day internationals for India, is kicked about the upcoming season. “Maharashtra is a developing side. There is flush of talent in the side. We have some promising youngsters like Yogesh Takwale and Nikhil Paradkar, who can take us to the next level. As a senior, I have a role in helping these young turks grow and fulfill their promise,” Bahutule puts things in perspective.
He, however, is not entirely chuffed with his performance last season. “To be honest, it wasn’t outstanding by any stretch of imagination. I thought my showing was average. I would like to better that this season.”
On Maharashtra’s chances this season, Bahutule has no doubts the team has the ammunition to turn in a decent display. “We have a good blend of youth and experience and that should work to our advantage,” he pointed out.