Karnataka’s star Mayank Agarwal has credited his stint with India A after becoming just the third player from his state to slam a triple century in the Ranji Trophy. The right-handed batsman, known for his aggressive stroke-play, began the season in the worst possible manner, grabbing a pair against Hyderabad. However, he bounced back from that slump in style, scoring an unbeaten 304 to guide Karnataka to a mammoth 685 for five against Maharashtra.
After KL Rahul & Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal becomes 3rd Karnataka player to score FC triple hundred. #RanjiTrophy #MHAvKAR
— Karnataka Ranji Team║ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ ರಣಜಿ ತಂಡ (@RanjiKarnataka) November 3, 2017
Delighted after turning his campaign around, Agarwal told Wisden India:
“I am really happy and satisfied with the fact that I got a triple ton. It’s a really good feeling to be able to play such a knock. Despite registering a pair in my last game, I felt good that the selectors and captain still backed me. It came as a morale booster. My approach to this knock was no different, and it’s just that I wanted to bat long and score big.”
R Samarth and Nair supported Agarwal well. He added 259 runs for the first wicket before sharing a 270-run stand with Nair (116) for the third wicket.
“Both the partnerships were very well paced,” said Agarwal. “Karun got a hundred in his last game (134 v Hyderabad) and played brilliantly in this one as well. It was really good that we managed to pull off two big partnerships that helped us post a big total on the board.”
Welcome to the 300’s club Mayank Agarwal??? Big up yourself, you beauty!! ??? pic.twitter.com/nuAsT4mpXm
— K L Rahul (@klrahul) November 3, 2017
He further emphasized the importance of playing at a higher level which gave him the confidence. The 26-year old was a part of India A’s squad for the recent five-match One-Day series against New Zealand A.
“Playing at a higher level, it gives you confidence and an idea about where you stand and what you need to improve,” he said. “That was a good learning experience for me. Now this season is as important for me as any other season. I don’t take any season lightly. You got to go out there and perform at your best.”
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