When Ishant Sharma’s ‘Thirst For Knowledge’ Impressed Former Australia Fast Bowler Jason Gillespie

Former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie was very impressed with Ishant Sharma’s ‘thirst for knowledge’ when he played English county under his coaching, despite being an established international cricketer. Ishant, who has so far picked 297 wickets from 97 Tests, played for Sussex in 2018 with Gillespie as the coach.

“You know what really struck me about Ishant was his thirst for knowledge, his willingness to listen, ask questions, try new things, because sometimes you can get senior players, experienced players who will just go about and do their thing,” Gillespie said on a chat-show “Cow Corner Chronicles”.

In fact, during the last first-class season, Ishant acknowledged that everyone spoke about his problems but it was Gillespie who provided solutions.

“They know what they need to do and that’s fine. But Ishant was very much…he knew what he needed to do to bowl well. He also knew he wanted to get better,” remarked Gillespie.

India toured England later that season in 2018 and Gillespie felt Ishant was better for the experience.

“Knowing that he had an opportunity at Sussex, knowing that India were going to be playing in England, later on, I think he saw it as a very good opportunity, to learn and bowl in English conditions, and test himself. Look he was fantastic with us at Sussex, added Gillespie.

Gillespie also said that Ishant made an impact on the players in Sussex.

“The Sussex players were really impressed with Ishant’s work ethic. They loved his personality. He fitted in really well in the dressing room. His work ethic in the nets, or on the track was phenomenal. It was really good for our young seam bowlers at Sussex to see, that this is what it takes for a Test bowler,” he added.