'Focus on game and money will follow' - Rahul Dravid's advice to Shivam Mavi

'Focus on game and money will follow' - Rahul Dravid's advice to Shivam Mavi

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Promising fast bowler Shivam Mavi has revealed that Rahul Dravid has advised the youngsters not to go after money as the riches will keep flowing if they concentrate on the game. Mavi has also added that his main focus will be on domestic cricket after the completion of the upcoming IPL.

Shivam Mavi became a star when he along with Kamlesh Nagarkoti were clocking speeds in excess of 140 kmph in the ICC Under-19 World Cup. He was one of the key members of the Under-19 team that won the World Cup earlier this year as Mavi took 9 wickets in 6 games. 

Post the World Cup win, the Under-19 stars have got a lot of attention and some of them have also managed to gain IPL contracts. However, Shivam Mavi has revealed that coach Rahul Dravid has urged them to focus on the game and the money will follow. Hence, the youngster is keen on following the legend’s advice. 

“Rahul Sir told us that 'money will keep flowing in but just remember what is it that has helped you earn so much money and focus on that. It's cricket for you. If you give time to cricket then it will give you back, whatever you want.' His words still rings in my ears,” Shivam Mavi was quoted saying by TOI. 

A few of the players who played in the Under-19 World Cup for India represented their state teams in domestic cricket before going to play in the mega-event. But Mavi was not one of them. Hence, he is looking forward to progress from the Under-19 level to the domestic level. 

“Post IPL, the main focus will be on domestic cricket. I am yet to make my debut in domestic cricket (first-class, List A or T20). IPL is an opportunity to grab limelight if you do well. It becomes easier from hereon, if you do well here,” Mavi added. 

One of the main reasons for Mavi’s popularity has been the pace he generates. He consistently hit the 140 kmph mark in the Under-19 World Cup. However, once again Rahul Dravid has advised him to bring consistency in his game. 

“I don't focus much on pace. The main accent is on the rhythm. Once you get your rhythm right, you can generate pace. Rahul Sir said focus on bringing consistency in line and length,” the 19-year old further added. 

Shivam Mavi was picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping Rs 3 crore at this year’s auction and will be sharing the dressing room with the likes of Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Johnson. It will provide the youngster a massive opportunity to learn a few things. 

“I will try to learn a lot from them. It will obviously help me,” Mavi said. 

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