Having represented India at the U-19 level, Anuj Rawat says he’s not looking too far ahead and wants to focus on the upcoming IPL and domestic season.
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Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) young wicketkeeper-batsman Anuj Rawat made his debut in the first phase of IPL 2021, in a special moment for the cricketer and his family. The 21-year-old played a crucial role on the field for the Rajasthan-based franchise with three fine catches in a 55-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Anuj is now looking to make his presence felt when the 2021 edition resumes in the UAE, having spent quality time with family and friends in his hometown Ramnagar.
“I was really happy that I could make my IPL debut for the Royals. It was unfortunate that the season was postponed but given our current position in terms of being fifth on the table, I think it puts us in good stead with respect to the resumption in the UAE,” expressed the youngster who represents Delhi in domestic cricket as quoted by Royals’ official website.
“Remembering that some of our players had to depart and some were unavailable for most part of the competition, I believe it was a good overall performance from our team, and we are really confident of making the most of the next seven matches and give ourselves the best chance of making it to the playoffs,” he added.
Anuj termed persisting with full focus and energy in practice sessions as the factors which paid dividends and led to his debut.
“I just had one thing in my mind, to give my 100% always. Was putting in a lot of hard work in the practice sessions. I had confidence in myself, and deep down, I had a feeling that I’ll get my chance when we go to the Delhi-leg of our matches because it’s my home stadium and I am well accustomed to those conditions,” he stated.
“When Sanga told me that I would be starting, it felt nice, and I was really motivated to go out there and do my best for the team. Now I’m looking forward to doing the same things again in the UAE, and help the team in whatever way I can, whether it’s on the field or with the bat,” added the talented youngster.
The 21-year-old got an opportunity to interact with MS Dhoni whom he really admires, during the Rajasthan-based franchise’s clash against CSK in Mumbai earlier this year.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have spoken to him a couple of times. This time I just asked him about what he meant when he said in an interview that an athlete should be honest with him/herself, to which he replied by saying that an athlete should be honest with himself in terms of knowing what he’s doing right and what he’s doing wrong. In essence, it meant that if you are feeling lazy one day and skip a training session, then you should know that it’s wrong, and that you’re the one who’s responsible for cheating your body,” stated Anuj.
The Delhi-based cricketer has represented India at the U-19 level, helping them win the U-19 Asia Cup in 2018. Anuj’s next goal is to make his presence felt in the IPL and in the domestic season.
“My main focus is on the next seven matches in the IPL with the Royals, which are really important for the team and for myself. Post that, I’ll be focused on both red ball and white ball cricket, because if you perform well, there is scope for you to really progress and make a case to the selectors.”
