Cricket
After shining in Red Bull Speedster, Naman hopes to become India’s fastest bowler ever, improving from the experience he received as Rajasthan Royals net bowler.
A left-arm fast bowler, Naman Tiwari has gained experience as net bowler for Rajasthan Royals over two seasons. While he worked hard for the team, he also used the opportunity to refine his skills.
After showcasing his talent in Red Bull Speedster, he had the opportunity to learn the nuances of fast bowling from players like Trent Boult and Navdeep Saini. His performances in the 2021-22 Cooch Behar Trophy and 2022 Vinoo Mankad Trophy were also impressive.
Here, he talks about his dream of becoming India’s fastest ever bowler and his experiences with Rajasthan Royals.
Can you tell us about the beginning of your cricket journey and why you picked fast bowling?
I am from Lucknow, and I joined a cricket academy there at the age of 12. Though I enjoy batting, the thrill of bowling fast with a new ball attracted me more. I love watching the stumps get shattered, which shaped my mindset to become a fast bowler.
My dream is to become India’s fastest bowler ever and be counted among the world’s best pacers. That’s what I am working towards.
Can you tell us about your experiences in competitive cricket so far?
I have played Under-16 cricket for Uttar Pradesh and was part of the state’s Under-19 team for two consecutive years. I have also been in India’s Under-19 probables camp for the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons. I was a successful bowler in the 2021-22 Cooch Behar Trophy and the 2022 Vinoo Mankad Trophy.
Tell us about your family. What do your parents do, and how much support have you received for cricket?
Apart from being a contractor, my father is an agent in an insurance company. My mother is a homemaker. My family has fully supported my cricket journey and guided me on how to improve and excel in the sport.
How and when did you learn about Red Bull Speedster?
A Red Bull Speedster qualifier was held in Lucknow, and my cricket academy coach informed me about it. He encouraged me to participate without worrying about selection and just focus on the process. At the Red Bull Speedster qualifier, I had the opportunity to meet former Indian fast bowler Munaf Patel sir, who taught me several bowling techniques. I was selected, which opened the doors for further opportunities.
What have you gained from being part of Red Bull Speedster?
It is a program that provides opportunities to young, emerging fast bowlers. For example, after getting selected in the trials, I got a chance to become a net bowler for Rajasthan Royals. Programs like Red Bull Speedster give more and more youngsters the opportunity to reach the top and it has played a big role in my progress.
How did you feel when you were selected as net bowler for Rajasthan Royals?
It was an incredible experience to bowl to players I had seen on television. It was special to interact with them and gain insights. This opportunity also helped me improve as a bowler.
What did you learn from fast-bowling legends like Trent Boult and Lasith Malinga?
I have followed Trent Boult for a long time; watching him bowl in the nets was inspiring. I was a little nervous to approach him, but when I bowled in the nets, he came up to me and encouraged me. That was a special moment. Lasith Malinga is one of the best yorker bowlers in history. I had several questions for him about how to bowl yorkers consistently, and he shared some valuable tips with me.
Which Rajasthan Royals batsman was the most difficult to bowl to in the nets?
Sanju bhai (Sanju Samson) because he is adept at hitting balls of good line and length. Sanju bhai knows very well how to break the rhythm of the bowlers.
If you could dismiss any one batsman in the world, who would you pick and why?
I would love to dismiss Virat Kohli. He is one of the best batsmen of his generation, and for a young bowler like me, taking his wicket would be a big achievement.
How are you constantly improving your bowling?
I constantly take tips from my coaches and senior players. My philosophy is to never stop trying and keep believing in the process. I find that by keeping at it, the mistakes I make gradually start reducing.
Where do you see yourself in today’s fast-bowling competition?
Right now, my competition is with myself. I am working hard to earn a place in India’s under-19 team and the domestic leagues. When I was a net bowler for Rajasthan Royals, I was able to bowl 140 km/h in one session; that fills me with excitement.
Who is your fast-bowling idol?
Mitchell Starc. He combines raw pace with excellent line and length. Fast bowling is about two key aspects: swing and speed, and he has both.
How do you see your future in Indian fast bowling?
I want to be India’s fastest bowler ever. I also want to break Shoaib Akhtar’s record for the fastest ball ever bowled in the world.
What are your goals going forward as a fast bowler?
Currently, my top speed is 140 km/h, but I am working on increasing it further. I am also focusing on my fitness to ensure I can perform across all formats of the game.
