Liam Patterson-White is looking to further enhance his burgeoning reputation within the Nottinghamshire set up during his trip to India with England’s Under19s.
The left-arm spinner was rewarded with a place on the tour after a wicket-laden 2016, which culminated in a string of second team games, starting against a strong Warwickshire side back in June.
“They (Warwickshire) basically had a first team out which was really nerve-racking for me,” he said of his second team bow.
“But Franksy took me to one side and told me I was there for a reason. He advised me to concentrate on doing what I do and it would come off.
“I had Laurie Evans hitting me everywhere but it was all about holding my nerve, which I did to take three wickets.
“I know I’ll come up against players like that next season, but it’s all about not focusing on the player but more about thinking how to get that batsman out.
“2016 was a great year, I got my debut in the second team, played some games and did quite well,” he continued.
“However, with the different formats you’ve got to train, it's important to look back on your strengths and weaknesses from the season and work hard on them throughout the winter.
“My main aspirations for the year ahead are to be a regular in the Seconds and be pushing for the first team with my performances, ultimately playing at Trent Bridge within the next two seasons.
“Everyone’s fighting for a place, so it’s important to keep improving and continue to learn as much about my game as I can.”
The 18-year-old’s first assignment of 2017 will take him to the subcontinent, a true education for an overseas spinner.
However, Patterson-White isn’t one for shirking the responsibility likely to be put on his shoulders over the coming weeks.
“It is a real privilege to be picked for the tour. If I make my international debut, it’s a great opportunity to showcase my skills,” he said.
“The batsmen there, on their home turf, are going to be aggressive as they’ll be used to the conditions. It’s up to us to adapt as quickly as possible.
“In India, you’ve got to adjust to the climate, assess the conditions and how they play against us with bat and ball on their home turf, which will help us develop our games."
Patterson-White’s rise through the ranks has coincided with fellow member of the tour party with Nottinghamshire fast bowler, Jack Blatherwick.
“Me and Blathers live together at the minute in the Academy house," said Patterson-White. "We already have that bond, so it’s great to have him in the squad.
“Considering he has already been to Dubai with a similar squad, his experience will help me integrate with the rest of the lads.”
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