New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) During the IPL 2025 season, Kumar Kushagra found himself sidelined, unable to make an appearance for the Gujarat Titans (GT). Rather than settling for the sidelines, he dedicated himself to intense practice sessions, honing his batting and wicket-keeping skills. Returning to Jharkhand, he put his training to the test during the domestic season, proving he was ready to shoulder greater responsibilities.

The proof of his hard work was evident in the 2025/26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where Jharkhand emerged victorious, with Kushagra playing a pivotal role by scoring 422 runs in ten matches, boasting an impressive average of 161.68 and a strike rate of 60.28, which included four half-centuries.

He continued this exceptional form in the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, even taking on leadership responsibilities for Jharkhand in the absence of Ishan Kishan. His newfound power-hitting abilities were nurtured under the guidance of GT's cricket director, Vikram Solanki.

“I found it enjoyable as I received excellent batting practice under exceptional coaches – especially Vikram Solanki, who significantly contributed to my batting while I was with GT, focusing on how a specialist player in white-ball cricket operates and the distinctions between a player in all formats,” Kushagra shared in an exclusive conversation with IANS, organized by JSW Sports.

Furthermore, Kushagra had previously faced challenges against the new ball; however, with Solanki's mentorship at GT, he refined his approach. “While I had no specific issues, I struggled to perform well due to batting lower in the order. Back home, I lacked opportunities to practice against the new ball,” he explained.

“Upon joining the GT camp, Solanki advised me to always focus on batting against the new ball, shifting my mindset to maximize the power-play phase by effectively capitalizing on gaps in the field,” he elaborated.

His learning extended to wicket-keeping, where he received valuable insights from former players Parthiv Patel and Matthew Wade. “Parthiv sir was instrumental in teaching me how to keep effectively against spinners, especially against top bowlers like Rashid Khan. He emphasized understanding the bowler's variations and adapting accordingly,” Kushagra noted.

“Meanwhile, Matthew Wade provided guidance primarily for facing fast bowlers and working on my fielding techniques. Both coaches offered distinct styles that enhanced my skills immensely, allowing me to address both aspects,” he added.

Beyond technical skills, Kushagra also appreciated the familial atmosphere at GT, particularly observing head coach Ashish Nehra, which contributed to his growth as a player. “Living and training with the team was incredibly supportive. Nehra's humor off the field transforms into intense focus once practice starts. I learned the importance of maintaining composure outside while being focused during play,” he reflected.

The triumph in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is not just a victory but a testament to Kushagra's application of what he learned at GT, which included his elevation to bat higher in the order to optimize power-play opportunities alongside Kishan.

“I expected to open the innings, but when that didn’t pan out, they assigned me to bat at number three. I inquired what was expected of me, and they clarified that leveraging the power play was crucial for the team's success,” he stated.

“This clarity boosted my confidence, and I engaged in discussions with the management and secretary Saurabh Tiwary. Winning the tournament was exhilarating, especially after consistent previous performances without any titles,” he expressed.

Kushagra's leadership journey also flourished, filling him with gratitude. “This domestic season marked significant improvement compared to the last two years. I aim to elevate my team further, and being entrusted with the captaincy when Ishan Kishan was unavailable was an honor,” he mentioned.

He attended GT's pre-season camp in Udaipur this January, just before the second leg of the Ranji Trophy commenced, appreciating the high-intensity environment. “Though the camp was brief due to fewer players and coaches, the focus on keeping, fielding, and batting was commendable,” he said.

Despite changes in his professional life, Kushagra still practices with his father in Jamshedpur before major tournaments. “While my mindset as a player has evolved, my core values remain unchanged. Each year, I strive to improve, inching closer to my goal of representing the Indian team,” he remarked.

As Jos Buttler solidifies his spot as GT's primary keeper-batter, Kushagra understands the need for patience. However, after aiding Jharkhand to break their Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy drought, his immediate ambition is to secure an IPL title with GT, followed by a place on the Indian team. If achieved, this education phase at GT will mark a pivotal moment in his career.