Photo via Hindustan Times

After a flying start in IPL, Hinge yearns for the ultimate prize

Nagpur fast bowler Praful Hinge has earned a spot in the India A squad for their upcoming four-day fixtures against Australia A in Puducherry, moving closer to his ambition of playing Test cricket. Despite holding just 10 first-class matches under his belt and bypassing competitions like the Duleep Trophy or Irani Cup, the 24-year-old was fast-tracked by selectors due to his pace, which can reach 145 kph, and his reliability in hitting good lengths.

After playing in the Vidarbha Premier League, Hinge ramped up his red-ball workload to condition his body for lengthy spells across multiple formats.

Hinge initially caught widespread attention five months ago during his maiden Indian Premier League appearance for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals, where he remarkably grabbed three wickets in his first over. 3 kph.

While Sooryavanshi later hit him for six off a stray bouncer in a subsequent encounter, the young paceman continues to prioritize long-format mastery alongside his T20 experience.