Faulkner looks to Urn-it for Aussies!

KOLKATA: When that little-known gentleman touched base in Jaipur earlier this year, the all and sundry had very little idea about how the 23-year old all-rounder would fare. One look at the camp and the story you got was, James Faulkner, who?
It's all in the past now. The last few months have shown the world what the Australian youngster James Faulkner is capable of.Playing a key role in helping Rajasthan Royals reach the knock-outs of the Indian Premier League, the successful bowler not only earned the Baggy Green cap but also booked his berth for the Ashes.
As a first timer, there would be pressure on him, but his indomitable spirit is something to awe about. "There's never pressure on me. When on field, I'm up for the challenge," Faulkner had told this correspondent during the IPL.
May be, he was gearing up for the Ashes well before time. May be, he knew this would be his time to hog the limelight and that's why you could see the zeal to perform consistently during the IPL. He's not your typical Test player, but someone who is effective in all the three formats of the game.
And, on Wednesday afternoon, when Michael Clarke goes out for the toss, the fact that he has a genuine medium fast-bowler in Faulkner in the ranks, would satisfy the Aussie captain.
The veterans of the game feel this could well be Faulkner's time to be under the sun. "I love playing my game and that's what I'm focusing on," came Faulkner's reply.
At a time, when Australia is going to a transition phase, it's up to the young guns to deliver the goods and the likes of Faulkner are confident of making their presence felt.
What turned out to be a remarkable outing in the IPL has now reaped the fruits and hours before the start of mouth-watering Ashes, the Aussie young gun is ready to shun the odds.
After all, if it's Ashes, you need to Urn-your respect!