Former India wicketkeeper-batsman Ajay Ratra, who was recently appointed coach of the Assam under-19 team, was in Dibrugarh for a two-week camp to prepare the boys for the Cooch Behar Trophy. Avik Chakraborty caught up with the 34-year-old, who also holds the distinction of being the youngest keeper to score a century in Test matches. Excerpts from the interview:

The Telegraph: How has the experience been since you took charge as coach of the Assam under-19 team?

Ajay Ratra: I took charge in September and what I gather thus far is that the boys have a lot of potential but lack confidence. Under-19 is a crucial period and if they perform well at this level they invariably get selected to the Ranji team.

TT: What is your first priority for the team? How do you want to develop the players?

AR: My first priority will be to instil confidence in them and work on the temperamental aspects of the game, which is very essential in today's world. The players need to focus on fitness and have faith in their skills apart from backing themselves to come good at crucial moments of a match.

TT: Why do you think the team's performance has not been up to the mark of late?

AR: Yes, the team has had a lean run in the recent past. In my view it's because of a lack of application. They know that and we are working towards getting that sorted. At the same time, there have been good individual performances.

TT: Tell us about your stints as mentor prior to this.

AR: I worked as a National Cricket Academy coach, apart from being the Zonal Cricket Academy coach for two years. Last year, I was associated with the Goa under-16 team. I also worked as a consultant for Yuvraj Singh.

TT: Is the infrastructure in Assam congenial for cricket?

AR: Yes, the infrastructure is good. I think the state has recently done some work. However, there is more to be done.

TT: How does one become a good wicketkeeper?

AR: It's a tough job. To become a good wicketkeeper one has to love doing the job. An individual has to work on his fitness and gain strength in the lower body.

TT: How will the camp help the players?

AR: This camp will help the players acclimatise with the playing conditions. We have selected 26 probables for the Cooch Behar Trophy and a 15-member squad will be announced later. The first match will be played against Himachal Pradesh from November 5 to 8, followed by the second against Andhra Pradesh from November 14 to 17.