Hyderabad: The Andhra Premier League 2024 will start in Visakhapatnam on June 30. With a successful season last year, Rayalaseema Kings can’t wait to continue their winning streak in APL 2024. In an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, Girinath Reddy, captain of the Rayalaseema Kings team talks about the team’s strategy this season, why MS Dhoni is his favourite cricketer and describes his emotions when he took wickets of Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma.
Tremendous pressure on Rayalaseema Kings as defending champions! What's your strategy for this season?
We (Rayalaseema Kings) had an amazing season last year. As defending champions, we will have a responsibility on us to take forward the winning streak. This year too we are starting our season with positive confidence. We are having a lot of young and aspirant players who have been added to the team and with all of the team members' proactive contributions we are sure to win the title this year as well. Our prime strategy this season is to focus majorly on each match and give opportunity to new talents to excel.
Your U19 debut was impressive, with a century and 6-wicket haul. How did that experience shape your cricketing journey?
I have been grateful for the successful opportunity I got for my debut. I feel that the 100 in my debut match along with the 6-wicket haul has paved a way for me as I could garner better opportunities post that. It has also filled me with confidence to play cricket with much stability.
You led the U19 South India team for two years. What leadership lessons did you learn during that tenure?
Captaincy for the U19 South India has been a great responsibility that was precious to me. Leading players from different states has definitely given me very good experience. During that tenure I got the opportunity to learn some profound leadership lessons. I understood the importance of clear communication skills amongst my teammates. I could also learn to make strategic decisions even under pressure situations. Moreover, the best lesson has been staying focused on our goals.
Your Vijay Hazare debut was remarkable, with wickets of prominent players like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav. Describe that experience.
As a young cricketer, taking the wickets of players like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav is definitely a very joyful moment. It has certainly been one of the best cricket moments in my life.
As captain, how do you motivate your team, especially during pressure situations?
As the captain of Rayalaseema Kings, I always like to remain calm and composed during pressure situations. I communicate clearly to my players and encourage them to believe in their strengths and remind them of their roles and responsibilities. I also motivate them to play the match while maintaining a positive attitude.
What's your approach to balancing individual performance with team goals?
As a team we always encourage every individual to work on their performance and also team goals. We ask them to set their target to play as one team. We remind every player of their roles and responsibilities. As a team we set our expectations in a realistic manner and motivate the team to achieve those expectations.
How do you assess your team's strengths and weaknesses, and how do you plan to utilize them this season?
During our practice sessions we could understand everyone’s (individual) and team’s strengths and weaknesses. We have identified them and the goal is to work on those areas and improve with every match. We aim to analyze every player’s strengths and weaknesses, decide what is best for them and where they can work towards improving them and encourage them to give their best in the upcoming APL Season.
What's your take on the current state of Andhra Pradesh cricket, and how do you see the Rayalaseema Kings contributing to its growth?
Andhra Cricket Association has been developing the cricket scenario in AP, encouraging young talent. They are even scouting and recognizing talent from grassroots level and tournaments like APL are very good platforms. They help young players with a good career opportunity in cricket along with financial assistance.
Who's been your biggest inspiration in cricket, and why?
M S Dhoni has been a great inspiration to me. I grew up watching him play. His calmness, hardworking nature and the way he encourages new players has been an inspiration to me.
Looking back on your journey so far, what advice would you give to young cricketers aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
One thing I always encourage youngsters who aspire to become cricketers is to believe in their hard work. Always stay motivated and have a positive mindset. Opportunities will come to you and you will need to really utilize them properly with a proper focus on your goal.
Any other comments you would want to add about APL 2024?
APL has been evolving rapidly and I am very hopeful that it will create a platform for many upcoming cricketers to be a part of IPL in the coming seasons. I feel that all the teams are preparing their best and we are expecting nail biting matches in the season ahead. We as a team could also train well at Anantapur in an amazing ground. We could improve in many areas as a team and we look forward to the upcoming season. Our aim is to retain the Champion Title this season as well.
