Debasis Sen: Kolkata Knight Rider’s promising fast bowler Shivam Mavi caught everyone’s attention during the 2018 U19 World Cup where he bowled at a raw pace. He was consistently clocking more than 140 kmph . But a stress fracture last season has pegged him back. He had to miss the IPL last year due to the injury. After spending most of his time in rehab, Mavi is now fit and raring to go in the 2020 edition. The promising fast bowler took a few questions from www.xtratime.in ahead of the season. Here are the excerpts:
XtraTime: How are you feeling after coming back from injury?
Mavi: I am feeling really good but at that point of time it was very much frustrating. I feel happy that I am getting back my rhythm, so I feel good.
XtraTime: It was noticed during the practice sessions at Abu Dhabi that you have been spending a lot of time with Abhishek Nayar. Can you talk us about his influence in your career so far?
Mavi: Both Abhishek (Nayar) sir and Omkar (Salvey) sir have really worked hard on my game. I couldn’t meet them in last 6 months as there was lockdown. They always gave me a lot of advice on how to improve my bowling. Now, I can see the improvements in my bowling as I have been working on them.
XtraTime: How challenging will it be to manage the hot and humid conditions in UAE, the pitches won’t be quick either?
Mavi: If you see, the wickets here are almost similar to what we get at most venues back home. Barring a few stadiums in India, the wickets are very much similar. We are also getting used to with the hot and humid conditions here. I think we are getting acclimatized, as we have been practicing here for more than a week. So I think we are adapting well.
XtraTime: Are you looking forward to picking the brains from Pat Cummins as far as fast bowling is concerned?
Mavi: Pat Cummings is yet to join but Lockie Ferguson is already here with us. I had a few conversations with Lockie regarding match pressure and other things. Both are vastly experienced and have been around in international cricket for so long, thus their tips and suggestions will be very helpful. They are one of the best bowlers in the world, so they tell us how to handle pressure in a certain situation.
Xtra Time: There will be very stiff competition for a spot in the playing XI. Are you looking forward to a healthy competition among the Indian fast bowlers in the KKR side?
Mavi: Yes, the competition is already there since there are so many Indian fast bowlers. But I think one should focus on himself only. How to keep yourself ready for a chance is very important. It will never be easy to get into the playing XI. I am only focusing on my bowling.