Bengal captain Manoj Tiwary has been knocking on the doors of the senior Indian team for a long time now. However, he has been unable to book a place in the senior team despite his prolific run scoring in the domestic circuit. The reason for that has been his consistency and his fitness.
This year was no different as did the bulk of the scoring for his side in the Ranji Trophy. He also helped India ‘B’ win the Deodhar Trophy as he scored 120 and an unbeaten 59 in the final of the tournament in Dharamsala.
Tiwary has been scoring runs at an average of 50.27 in the domestic circuit with his overall tally at 7642 runs.
The Bengal captain is now looking up to the upcoming IPL where he will play for his fourth franchise, Kings XI Punjab. The 32-year-old is banking on his recent domestic form to help the franchise win their maiden IPL title.
Tiwary said:
“I had a wonderful domestic series, especially the shorter format. Ranji Trophy didn’t go as planned, we had to play at a wicket that was bowler friendly and so it was difficult for me. However, in the shorter format, starting from Vijay Hazare (Trophy) to winning the Deodhar Trophy, I had an incredible time. I’m happy to have contributed with the bat and ball. I just need to carry forward this momentum.”
He also added that not leading the side will help him focus more on his batting. He said,
“Definitely yes, I will relish that. You know, I led Bengal for a long time now, and there are responsibilities as a captain. With the Kings XI, I won’t have to think much before attacking the ball. In T20, it becomes important to assess the situation and play how it demands.”
“Last year, (with Rising Pune Supergiants) I had a plan to play on the front foot. I wanted to play at a higher strike-rate no matter what the situation was. If you go through my last year’s IPL, my average is really good. It’s not bad. That’s what I want to continue the same mindset.”
The right-handed batsman believes playing under the mentorship of Virender Sehwag will help him a great deal.
“It’s like a dream for me. I was a part of Delhi Daredevils in first IPL season but at that time I was just 19. At that point, you hesitate to ask too many questions to a player of his aura. Now, I am pretty matured and I have toured India with him and that understanding is there.”
“Sehwag Bhai has been an inspiration for me as he’s helped me in my professional life. I have a lot to learn from him as far as T20 is considered as he known to dominate the bowlers. It’s going to be perfect for me. I’m pretty sure it’s going to be an exciting season for me,”
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