[Exclusive] Praveen Kumar on Rohit Sharma: No Room for Hotchpotch in His Game

Former India pacer Praveen Kumar, who made his mark in all three game formats, is now embracing a new role as a coach in the ongoing 2024 edition of the Legends League Cricket (LLC). Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Kumar is set to lead the defending champions, Manipal Tigers, for the third consecutive season, having previously contributed as a player during their title-winning campaign.

In an exclusive interview with CricTracker on the sidelines of LLC 2024, Kumar shared his insights on coaching in lucrative leagues. He also praised Indian skipper Rohit Sharma for his successful national team leadership. Additionally, the veteran pacer offered valuable advice to young, aspiring pacers in India. It reflected on potential coaching opportunities that may lie ahead.

Snippets

1. What are your thoughts on your new role in the LLC?

Taking on the role of coach with Manipal Tigers is incredibly exciting. I eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for the team and myself. This new chapter offers an opportunity to shape the skills and strategies of talented players, fostering their growth individually and collectively. It definitely feels gratifying to step into this position, as it allows me to share my knowledge and experiences with a passionate group of athletes eager to succeed.

I look forward to building a solid team culture, encouraging collaboration, and guiding the players toward achieving their goals. Embracing this responsibility fills me with enthusiasm, and I am committed to positively impacting the team’s journey.

2. Do you envision yourself coaching India or any franchise in the Indian Premier League?

Absolutely. If a suitable opportunity arises, I will not hesitate to embrace it with total commitment. The prospect of taking on new challenges is invigorating, and I am always prepared to put in the necessary effort to make the most of any situation that comes my way. Each opportunity presents a chance for growth and learning, and I aim to approach them with enthusiasm and determination.

Seizing opportunities wholeheartedly is essential for personal and professional development. It allows for the exploration of new paths and the cultivation of valuable experiences. By remaining open to possibilities, I can navigate various situations confidently and resiliently, leading to greater success and fulfillment in my endeavors.

3. Your friendship with Rohit Sharma spans many years. Did you ever foresee him becoming such a successful captain?

Yes, I did notice that. Rohit has exhibited remarkable leadership qualities since his youth, showcasing a natural ability to guide and inspire those around him. His approach to captaincy is marked by simplicity, as he focuses on clear communication and straightforward strategies while avoiding unnecessary complications. This clarity helps his teammates understand their roles better and fosters a positive team environment.

Moreover, Rohit’s calm demeanor under pressure further reinforces his leadership credentials. Maintaining composure during challenging situations speaks volumes about his character and decision-making skills. It is gratifying to witness him successfully lead the national team in this manner, as his leadership style not only boosts the team’s performance but also instills confidence in the players and fans alike.

4. What is the most crucial factor for someone aspiring to become a fast bowler in India?

Natural talent plays a significant role in the world of fast bowling, particularly when it comes to achieving remarkable speeds. Only a select few bowlers can consistently reach 150 km/h velocities, a feat closely linked to their physique and arm structure. Legendary bowlers like Shoaib Akhtar, RP Singh, and Jasprit Bumrah exemplify this phenomenon, as they possess unique arm flexibility that enhances their ability to generate speed. This natural advantage sets them apart from their peers in the sport.

In addition to inherent talent, training regimens, and physical builds contribute to consistently maintaining such high speeds. Each bowler’s approach to training is distinct and tailored to their strengths and weaknesses. This variation in training and the individual’s body mechanics explain why so few bowlers can sustain elite speeds over time. As a result, the intersection of natural talent and dedicated training is crucial in producing fast bowlers who can perform at the game’s highest levels.

5. Speaking of Bumrah, who will be the next all-format pacer for the Indian team?

Numerous promising young talents are poised to seize opportunities in the domestic circuit. Akash Deep stands out as a player with exceptional potential, showcasing skills that could make a significant impact on the field. His performances have caught the attention of many, highlighting the depth of talent emerging from this vibrant environment.

However, Akash Deep is just one of many worthy of recognition. The domestic circuit is brimming with emerging players eager to make their mark, each bringing unique strengths and capabilities to the game. As these young talents continue to develop, they are likely to play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of their teams and the sport.

Check out more related topics: LLC 2024: Match 5 – IC vs SSS Prediction: Who Will Claim Victory in Today’s Match?

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