From 117kg to 78kg; Maheesh Theekshana’s journey to becoming CSK’s mystery spinner

From 117kg to 78kg; Maheesh Theekshana’s journey to becoming CSK’s mystery spinner

Maheesh Theekshana

Chennai Super Kings’ spinning wizard, Maheesh Theekshana recently took to social media to open up on his journey to becoming a cricketer and the fitness obstacles he had to endure on his way. The 21-year-old has been an integral part of Chennai Super Kings‘ recent turn of fortunes. From being written off from the IPL mid-season, the Kings are now again in contention for a top 4 spot. Although, it’s not as easy as if they would’ve liked.

However, Maheesh Theekshana has been a huge part of their recent wins. The Sri-Lankan international has managed 12 wickets in 8 matches this season. He’s the team’s third-highest wicket-taker having played far lesser games than those above him. While also boasts the best economy rate among his teammates. Although things weren’t always easy for the 21-year-old spinner.

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FS Video

Maheesh Theekshana on his fitness issues as a youngster in cricket

YouTube video

In an interview with the team, the 21-year-old said, “I was 117 kg at that time (U-19 days), so I had to work harder to get my weight and skin folds down in the yo-yo test. In 2020, I got everything down and brought my fitness to the (required) level. I started to do more hard work on my body.”

“In 2017-18, I was in the U-19 squad, but I did not get a chance to play because I failed fitness tests a few times. In 2019, I had to be a water boy for 10 games in three-day matches. So I knew that if I failed, I would have to carry the water bottles again. But I kept believing in myself and had that never-say-die attitude. That’s why I am here in 2022,” Maheesh Theekshana continued.

“In 2021, I represented my country. I had a chance in the last one-day game against South Africa. It’s remarkable. I never thought that I would be a part of the (T20) World Cup in 2021.” The bowler’s interview was posted by the team on their YouTube handle.

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