IPL 2018 has helped me adapt to different situations and read the game better, says Vijay Shankar
All-rounder Vijay Shankar has been of the opinion that IPL 2018 has remodeled his gameplay and is the turning point in his career. He also admitted that no matter how well he fares in the future, he will not be able to shake off the memory of his struggle in his maiden international innings.
Tamil Nadu all-rounder Vijay Shankar didn’t have a good start in the IPL 2018, but the Delhi Daredevils player persevered through the season with consistent performances while his team suffered a disappointing ordeal, finishing last on the points table. Shankar garnered 212 runs in 13 matches at an impressive average of 53 and a strike-rate of 143.24. In bowling, however, Shankar has only one wicket to his name in his bowling game with figures of 1 for 22.
IPL was a crucial form for Shankar to not only get back his form but also bury the ghost of the Nidahas Trophy final. The nervy match had propelled him to start poorly in IPL as well and he didn’t get the start he wanted, However, the player stated that he had realized it early in the season decided to change his approach.
“I was not getting runs under my belt in the first 3-4 matches and that was disappointing. After the first few games, I chose to concentrate more on my preparation. I wanted to create an impact whenever I went in to bat — irrespective of the number of balls I faced,” he said in an interview with Vijay Shankar.Â
The turning point of his season arrived in the faceoff against Chennai Super Kings in Pune, where he smashed 54 off 31 balls and partnered with Rishabh Pant to gain 88 runs for the team. With his bowling also failing before then, Shankar got some hold in his progress and he also ended the season strong and has stated that he has emerged out as a better player.
“The innings versus CSK gave me tremendous self-confidence. Such knocks are needed for every cricketer in order to find his footing in the team. The season has been a turning point for me. I have batted at various positions in this IPL, and it has helped me to adapt to different situations. I can say that my ability to read the game has become better as well,” he said.Â
Delhi took a major step in appointing Ricky Ponting as the skipper after his successful stint with Mumbai Indians. And though DD didn’t have
“Right after my second game — when I failed to contribute much with the bat — I went up to Ricky and told him how frustrated I was with that. I was harsh on myself for having not done well. But, his message was simple as he stressed
