The stint for the Mumbai Indians franchise outfit in the Indian Premier League in South Africa was very important for his step up the cricket ladder to the international arena, feels all rounder Abhishek Nayar.
"I expected to be included in the side for the World T20 championship. That did not happen and I was disappointed, but I'm happy to be selected now", Nayar told PTI on Wednesday on his selection in the Indian ODI team bound for the West Indies.
Talking about the IPL, the Secunderabad-born youngster said that rubbing shoulders with international players and doing well brought him into the limelight.
"Playing with top international players and on an international stage like the IPL gave me a fair idea of what it's all about," said the 25-year-old hard-hitting left-handed batsman and useful right-arm medium pacer.
Nayar said that he got useful tips from champion batsman Sachin Tendulkar when playing in the IPL.
"He told me not to get overawed, stick to the basics and play my natural game always", said the youngster with the uncanny ability to break partnerships. He played a key role in Mumbai winning the Ranji Trophy for the 38th time last season.
Nayar, who averages close to 44 after four first class seasons, said playing for India A against the likes of Australian express bowler Shaun Tait also stood him in good stead.