#COCExclusive Interview with Mohit Sharma "When it comes to captaincy, I am not as cool as Mahi bhai."

Mohit Sharma spoke about MSD, Kings XI Pujnab and playing under Murali Vijay


Mohit Sharma one of India's finest fast bowler has had a good run in the domestic season, both as a captain and as a bowler, taking Haryana to quarterfinals and finishing as team's leading wicket taker. He now has his eyes set for the upcoming IPL season.

 In a recent Interview with Circle of Cricket, he reflects back on his domestic season and his opinion of the revamped KXIP squad.


How was the experience of being a leader and a key player?

I enjoy such responsibilities. The team had the right balance of experience and young talent and when you have that you tend to enjoy games more, it's a healthy environment to grow as a team. So far we are doing well in One day as well in Vijay Hazare.

You have played under one of the world cricket's finest captains, Did you pick up any leadership skills from him?

I did have my observations of Mahi bhai and tried to apply a few of them but at the end of the day, every player has their own way of going about the game, I am not as calm or cool as Mahi bhai, I do tend to get aggressive on the field.



What has been your mantra for captaincy so far?

I treat situations on their merit, I don't go in with rigid plans, it's important to be flexible as per the situations, else the process can get regressive or disappointing. So I just read the situations and act accordingly.

There are plenty additions in fast bowling dept of KXIP with Matt Henry, Varun Aaron and Natarajan joining in. You have shared a good chemistry with Sandeep Sharma as a bowling partner. Now, who do you see as your bowling partner?

I am really happy to see that we have so many resources. It brings out the best in you, and we are all always learning. I have seen Natarajan bowl, he has brilliant off cutter, I will be looking to learn that and include that in my game. I and Matt were together in CSK as well, so I know how he operates. Varun and I have played together for 3 years. So it would be easier for all of us to gel and come together as a team. With Sandy, we knew each other's plans and strengths, there is a bond, and I think that's what made the last season a good one for us as bowlers as KXIP had the second best economical in the death overs run rate after Hyderabad. I am excited and looking forward to meeting all the new additions.


The batting lineup is also looking envious, With additions of Guptill and Morgan? And Moreover, everyone else also hitting form before the start of the season?

We all saw recently what Guptill can do. I am a Guptill fan and strongly believe in his capabilities. Even last year it was disappointing to see him being unsold at auctions and later being picked by MI. Morgan is a responsible player and you need characters like Sammy in your dressing room not just as a player but also as someone who can bring in calmness and joy in the dressing room. As I said it's important to enjoy this format.

What connects to you Punjab?

It's a happy dressing room. We all think alike in many ways, it's the desi feeling and the bonds and friendships which the Punjab is famous for are what keeps me connected to Punjab. I have been coming to Punjab for last 10-15 years for matches and visiting friends. It's one of the most beautiful places in India and the culture never stops to amaze me.

Everyone at KXIP seems to share a bond with the mentor Virender Sehwag. In what ways does he help players?

His presence itself makes a huge difference. He has a completely unique mindset. Last season itself, I made a routine that I would sit with Viru Paaji for 10 min before going into bowl. T20 is such a stressful game for bowlers and he, on the other hand, will simplify it for me in many ways and would just take all the pressure off me. Basically, none better than him to keep a dressing room atmosphere light and healthy.



 
 

By Ankush Bhatia - 10 Mar, 2017

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