The cricket is due to return after a hiatus caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, when England takes on the West Indies in a three-Test series starting July 8. Meanwhile, India is also trying to resume training for its players at bio-secure venues.
However, Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has admitted that it will be different playing in front of no crowds in the stadiums, given that he likes to perform for the fans and people present in the ground.
"I think it is no secret that sport will be different without the fans. For instance, I will now do my thigh-five celebrations looking towards the cameras so that the fans can watch me on TV instead," Dhawan said while on chat with Delhi Capitals’ Instagram Live.
Dhawan also believed that the break came as a blessing in disguise and gave many cricketers like him an opportunity to spend time with the families.
"I've looked at the pandemic as an opportunity to bond with my family. They were living in Australia, and there's very little time I used to get with them, because of the constant travel and schedule," he said.
"I am glad that I finally have the time to relax with them, and get closer to them. Even though I can't wait to go out and play, I am not that sad that we are spending so much time indoors," added the opener.
Dhawan, who made his India debut in 2010 has had to battle various injuries and loss of form in his career, including being dropped from the Test team last year after a barren run.
"My will power is very strong, and injuries or failures don't sadden me. I'm all about positive affirmations and positive energies because they help you in thinking about what you can do next to improve. I believe that courage is important because you need to continue believing that you're good enough, and keep the faith," said Dhawan.
"We've known each other from our U-19 days, and get along well both on and off the field. With him, communication has always been very easy, and that has reflected on the field. While batting in a match, if I'm facing a problem with something, I just walk across the pitch and talk to him," he said about his partnership with Rohit Sharma.
The left-hander from Delhi has an excellent record in ICC events and said, "I don't really prepare separately for them. I've been lucky to peak just in time before World Cups and Champions Trophies. As a player, I prepare every day of the week, and I would like to perform well every day. I just feel very blessed that I've always been able to shine for my country in big tournaments.”
Meanwhile, Dhawan, who played for the Delhi IPL franchise way back in the 2008 edition, was bought in the IPL 2019 auctions by the revamped franchise and mentioned that he is happy to be back home.
"It was good to be back in Delhi after a few years, as this has always been my home and it is also where my heart is. I am sure we will win the IPL soon, and give the trophy to the fans of Delhi. They deserve it for the support they have always given to us," he added.
(IANS inputs)
