Tendulkar's 'favourite' leggie Samuel raring to go in TNPL

He was once Sachin Tendulkar's 'favourite' leg-spinner in Chennai. For nearly three years since the 2008 England Test at Chepauk, S. Samuel turned out to be the master blaster's preferred legspinner during numerous net sessions.

Samuel hasn't played much top-level cricket in the last six years -his last first division appearance was in 2010. But the 32-year-old Chennai leggie will be back to playing big-time cricket and is raring to go for VB Chandrasekhar's Thiruvallur in the inaugural TNPL which starts later this month.

Recollecting his interactions with the legend, Samuel, who currently plays for Sea Hawks CC in the third division, said: "It was like a dream for me in 2008 (ahead of India's first Test against England in that series). I beat his bat on a few occasions and found his edge a few times. He told me I bowled really well and advised me not to change my action. During his next visit to Chennai, I was not there for one of the net sessions. He asked our nets in charge Mr. T.S. Mohan to call me up.

"When I was informed about it, I couldn't believe it. I think I was his favourite. He asked me to bowl googlies. I attempted one and the ball didn't turn. He then corrected my grip and the ball spun."

It didn't end there. "Sachin said someone from Mumbai Indians would call me for a trial ahead of the 2009 IPL. And Rahul Sanghvi called me to attend the selection. But I was suffering from jaundice. However, I managed to make the trials, but couldn't give my best. Sachin later on told me not to sulk and keep working hard," added Samuel, who has never represented Tamil Nadu at any level. A "disappointed" Samuel faded away from the cricketing scene since 2011 owing to family responsibilities.

The arrival of TNPL has reignited his dreams. "I think this can change my life again.Age is not a factor. Pravin Tambe is successful in this format. I may not have been playing with big boys, but I have been playing lower division leagues and I believe I still have it in me to deliver.My dream is to play in the IPL.And I thank VB for trusting my abilities. Last season I represented CromBest in the second division and emerged as their highest wicket-taker with 20 scalps. I feel I can be at my best," added Samuel, an employee of C.H. Robinson.