Sai Sudharsan, the young Indian cricketer, recently caught the attention of fans during the first Test match against England in Leeds. Cameras spotted him in the pre-innings looking intently at a ball and seemingly writing in a notebook, sparking comparisons to Rahul Dravid's meticulous preparation rituals. However, contrary to initial assumptions, Sudharsan has revealed that he wasn't actually scribbling notes, but employing a personal technique to "wind down" before heading out to bat.
The video of Sudharsan's pre-innings routine went viral, with many assuming he was jotting down strategies or making notes on the bowlers he was about to face. The apparent similarity to Dravid's famed notebook habits fueled this speculation. Dravid, known for his rigorous preparation and attention to detail, often used a notebook to analyze his game and opposition bowlers.
However, Sudharsan clarified that his actions were part of a relaxation technique. Instead of writing anything of substance, he was simply doodling to calm his nerves and focus his mind. This method helps him to detach from the pressure of the upcoming innings and enter a more relaxed and receptive state.
Sudharsan's debut in the first Test against England wasn't particularly memorable, as he was dismissed for a duck in the first innings. This made him the first Indian batter in 15 years to register a duck in his debut Test innings. However, he showed some improvement in the second innings, scoring 30 off 48 balls before being dismissed by Ben Stokes.
Despite the underwhelming start to his Test career, Sudharsan bounced back in the subsequent match in Manchester, scoring a gritty 61 in the first innings. He also formed a 50-plus run stand with Rishabh Pant, who was batting on 37 off 48 balls before an injury forced him to leave the field.
Sudharsan's journey to the Indian Test team has been marked by consistent performances in various formats. He has scored runs in the IPL, India A games, and ODIs, showcasing his adaptability and talent. Experts have analyzed his batting technique, highlighting his strengths and potential weaknesses. His ability to blend classical technique with modern power-hitting has been particularly praised.
His T20 evolution, aided by training with coach Shannon Young in Australia, has enabled him to combine traditional skill with biomechanical precision. He optimizes his equipment using BPI (Balance Point Index), ensuring his bats perform at their best.
Sai Sudharsan's "winding down" trick reveals a glimpse into the mental side of cricket, highlighting the importance of managing pressure and maintaining focus. While his notebook may not contain strategic insights, it serves as a tool for him to center himself and prepare mentally for the challenges on the field.
