Calcutta: For Shubman Gill, the U-19 World Cup triumph is a closed chapter. He has set new targets and is ready for fresh challenges. For him, it is about adapting to the situations and preparing mentally for the forthcoming IPL.
“The IPL will be a big step for all of us and a great learning experience. Rahul (Dravid) Sir has already told us that it’s more of a mental thing now. Everyone has the skills, but how you are mentally prepared to deliver on a particular day is what matters most. You’ve got to be mentally prepared to deliver a big innings and make it a special moment for the team,” Shubman told The Telegraph on Thursday evening.
In the city preparing with the Kolkata Knight Riders squad after being picked for a whopping Rs 1.8 crore, Shubman is ready for the challenge. “I’ve had some really good net sessions and these sort of things really boost up your confidence and motivate you,” said the U-19 World Cup’s Player of the Tournament.
The prospect of getting to know and facing Mitchell Starc at nets excites the 18-year-old. “Facing Starc at nets will really be exciting. I can only imagine that he will be really quick and will be bowling bouncers at me… These things come to my mind and I’m preparing myself mentally,” said Shubman.
Though he usually bats at No.3, Shubman is ready to bat at any position for KKR. “It’s all about adaptability. It doesn’t really matter which number I bat... I’m happy batting anywhere…
“For me, what matters is how well I adapt to situations and formats. A good player is one who adapts well to different situations… Be it one-day, T20 or the longer format... I’m learning to adapt to different things now. Let’s see how it goes from here.”
India’s U-19 and A coach Dravid has played a big role in shaping his career. Shubman though isn’t in touch with him now.
“I’m not in touch with Rahul Sir anymore. He had a one-on-one with us before we were leaving for our hometowns after the World Cup. There were a couple of things he stressed upon… He told us about few important goals... He reminded us about the conversion rate, about how many players have played for India from the team that last won the title.”
