By Harcharan Chandhoke The relationship between Ishant Sharma and Indian cricket fans has often resembled that of a rather tempestuous couple. It began, as these things usually do, with a teenage infatuation. When the 18-year-old from Delhi burst on the scene with pace, accuracy and menace – and immediately tied even the great Ricky Ponting in all manner of knots - we dared to ask whether India had found its first quick bowler since Kapil Dev to match the country’s long line of spinning greats? VIDEO Scroll down for Dhoni salutes 'memorable' Lord's win Pumped up: Ishant Sharma (right) celebrates bowling Ian Bell on the fourth evening at Lord's
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Ishant burst on to the scene a tall teenager and troubled Ricky Ponting
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However he got slower and became the butt of Indian jokes
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Only Indian player (with MS Dhoni) to have played Test before in England
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Fast bowler reluctantly bounced out England at Lord's to win Test for India
The relationship soured and even turned abusive, as Ishant became the biggest butt of jokes in @placeholder after the nation’s corrupt politicians.