New Delhi, May 1 (NationPress) As the Royal Challengers Bengaluru prepare to face the Chennai Super Kings at home, the emerging talent Suyash Sharma shared insights into his arduous journey and unwavering commitment to the game, despite battling injuries.

The 21-year-old disclosed how he secured his initial IPL contract with the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, before making the transition to RCB.

"I had never participated in a major tournament prior to the IPL. My experience was limited to Under-25 games. For six or seven years, I attended trials without being selected. Each time I visited my parents, they would inquire about my chances in the IPL. Thankfully, my parents never lost faith in me; they recognized my dedication. After the Under-25s, I opted for IPL trials. My googly was exceptionally sharp then. I took eight wickets out of ten in a practice match with KKR, and even the wicket-keeper struggled. That was when I was chosen. My father was hospitalized at the time, and he wept when he heard the news. No one anticipated my IPL debut would come so quickly," Suyash recounted during the latest edition of RCB Bold Diaries.

"Before the IPL, I spent three months on bed rest and only resumed bowling two weeks prior to the tournament. During those three months, I envisioned every detail. I continuously thought about my bowling. I rehearsed affirmations in my mind and strategized each ball: first this way, then that. This mental preparation was invaluable. I also refined my run-up; it’s essential to my bowling. When a moment arrives, recalling past experiences helps you feel ready. I just had to replicate it in the match."

Suyash expressed gratitude to RCB for facilitating his surgery in London, enabling him to prepare for IPL 2025. "RCB arranged for my surgery in London, where I met James Pipey (RCB Team Physio). He and his family treated me like one of their own. I had three hernias and honestly didn’t expect to play the first match. I was advised I would play three to four matches later due to the extensive surgery. However, Pipey and his family provided exceptional care. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this franchise," he added.

"Now, I am fit. For the past two years, I dealt with pain. I was accustomed to playing through it. The challenge comes when you’re representing India or a franchise; you can manage. However, when I wasn’t playing, I was unaware of the severity of my injury. I sought help from a physiotherapist, but it was a struggle. RCB showed immense trust in me and invested in my recovery. I am genuinely pleased with my surgery. The path I am currently on is one I had not been on before. Whatever happens, it all unfolds for the better," Suyash stated.

Reflecting on his IPL debut against RCB and managing the pressure of the big stage, he shared, "My debut was against RCB, and the pressure was immense. I had never even attended a match before. The crowd was overwhelming. The atmosphere was electric. It was a different experience to step directly into the game. Until you bowl in a match, you can’t fully grasp what it feels like. I can’t articulate my emotions at that moment.

"My mind went blank, but I aimed to stick to my routine. After the first over, I settled into the game. I could see the crowd and appreciate the moment. I always knew I would play in the IPL, 101 percent. However, I didn’t anticipate it would happen this early. At 19, I envisioned debuting at 24 or 26. My self-belief was unwavering. When you put in hard work, divine assistance follows."

When asked about his aspirations for the season, Suyash concluded, "I have a singular goal: to win this year and lift the trophy. That is my focus right now."