Manan Vohra's dazzling strokeplay in the few matches that he has played for Kings XI Punjab made the cricketing public take notice of his talent but one thing that still rankles the 20-year-old is not being a part of the World Cup winning India U-19 team led by Unmukt Chand.
Manan was sure to make the cut but a finger injury ruled him out of the World Cup in Australia back in 2012.
"Even after my good performances in the IPL, I can't forget that setback as I was not able to be a part of the World Cup winning squad. It is a dream for any cricketer to be a part of World Cup winning squad. I missed that chance and it still rankles. Will I be able to forget it ever? No, perhaps," Manan told PTI during an interaction here today.
For Manan, being retained by KXIP before the auction was a "pleasant surprise". With scores of 47, 42 and 36, Manan, a late entrant into the playing XI, has impressed one and all.
"I was honoured that the franchise had faith in my abilities as a batsman and decided to retain me. My primary goal was to see to it that I can repay their faith," the Punjab youngster said.
He said that he was not at all frustrated at being benched during the first nine matches in the tournament.
"We have a very well-equipped side with all bases covered. Obviously, it was a decision of the team management but I knew that when my chance would come, I would have to grab it with both hands."
Sourav Ganguly in an interview to a website recently said that "if a youngster can pull Dale Steyn in-front of square, he should be a serious prospect for the future".
Ask him about that compliment, the soft-spoken Vohra is modesty personified.
"This is possibly the best compliment that I have got from a senior cricketer. Coming from one of the Indian greats works wonders for your confidence.
