“The harder you work, the luckier you get” – Cricketer Akhil Rajput speaks on father Lalchand Rajput, his inspirations and goals | Firstsportz Exclusive

Mumbai cricketer Akhil Rajput, the son of former Indian international cricketer Lalchand Rajput, has been making waves in the domestic circuit for quite some time. He joined Mizoram as an outstation player for the 2018-19 season and impressed with some terrific knocks and assured bowling efforts.

The elegant left-hand batsman has plenty of classy strokes up his sleeve and can play both aggressively and defensively depending on the situation. His part-time right-arm off-spin bowling is more than handy as well. He is thus, a complete package that is waiting to explode and announce his name.

The 29-year-old spoke to firstsportz.com in an exclusive interview about his inspirations growing up, his father’s role, idolizing Sourav Ganguly and so much more.

Excerpts from the exclusive interview

First of all, what inspired you to become a cricketer? Was there a moment where you realized ‘this is it. I wanna become a cricketer’ or was it something that was always on the back of your mind?

My first inspiration is my dad. I used to go with him to matches and practice and that’s where I developed the love for this beautiful game and decided to be a professional cricketer.

The pandemic situation has been unprecedented and difficult for everybody. How has the situation affected the way you train and practice?

Yes, the situation has been difficult for everybody but then you’ve got to find a way to motivate yourself. I could not practice much but I definitely used this time to train at home and use whatever resources possible to stay positive and keep myself fit and the same time. My main aim was to be in a good space mentally.

Which do you think is a better platform to kickstart one’s career? Would you prefer getting picked in the IPL to shoot into the limelight or first-class cricket alone?

I personally feel first class is a better platform and I would personally prefer it because it helps in the all-round development of a player. Nowadays, people prefer IPL as a platform but it only develops your one-dimensional skill i.e. T20 cricket. First class cricket on the other hand will develop your all-round character.

You pride yourself in being an assured batsman who can also bowl. Do you think with the shorter format of the game gaining more importance, it is essential that every batter learn to bowl and vice versa?

It depends on the individual but I would suggest why not! A new skill is always a plus and it can certainly help your team in situations where you need a crucial wicket or some crucial runs. So my answer is yes!

Any inspiration for your style of batting and bowling? Or was it something that came naturally to you?

Sourav Ganguly has always been my idol since my childhood. I tried copying him sometimes but it didn’t help me much as every player has his own individual style of play. But yes, he had a strong influence on me.

The most important piece of advice you’ve received from somebody?

“There is nothing like being lucky or unlucky. The harder you work the luckier you get . There is no substitute to hard work“ I got these amazing pieces of advice from my dad which completely changed my perception.

How often do you talk to your father about cricket? How often does he give you inputs and advice? Does he let you go about your game in your own fashion? Can you elaborate on how much his game has influenced yours?

I do talk to him a lot about the game and some technical aspects about batting. I’m lucky that India’s best coach is at home. I try to take as much as possible whenever he is around. My learning about batting and the development of my batsmanship has come from his as every small detail can make a big difference in batting. He has always emphasized on expressing yourself and not to think too much which has been a problem for me. Some batting drills that he has given me has also helped develop my game a great deal.

The player you look up to and want to emulate? Why?

Like I said, I used to look up to Sourav Ganguly since my childhood. I loved his attitude and I would love to have that kind of fighting attitude in me.

Which one of your performances is your favorite? And why?

My 1st first class hundred. It came at a crucial stage while we were chasing a huge total in excess of 400. We were going well but rain played spoilsport and we had to settle for a draw.

What is your next goal?

Establish myself and to earn the India cap!

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