The Indian selectors turned to Karnataka cricketer Mayank Agarwal who had impressed on the domestic circuit and was eagerly awaiting his chance with the national team. The 27-year old batsman came into the team and performed as if he had been there all his life. In the three innings that he batted in, Agarwal registered scores of 76, 42 and 77. He scored a total of 195 runs across two matches averaging close to 65. However, in a recent interview with Hindustan Times, the KXIP batsman reiterated that his journey has just begun.

“When I walked in, I was nervous, but was excited to be playing on the Boxing Day. I went into the middle and looked around, the first thought that came to my mind was ‘Well Mayank, you are in the middle of something big’. It is like a colosseum. Massive, noise, and a very big occasion. When I played a few balls and middled a few balls and spent a couple of overs there, the nerves started to ease. Also, I had a plan and whenever the mind started wavering around, I reminded myself to stick to the plan. Once the nerves eased, I was playing the ball on its merit and you know, just batting. The journey had started,” Agarwal said.

“Everyone was very warm, they welcomed me. Every person in the dressing room ensured that I was comfortable and ready to go and give my best. They backed me, asked me to believe in myself so that I can go and give my best on the field. From Sanjay Bangar sir to Ravi sir, to Virat, everybody.