IPL 2018: Good Performance in this Season is Turning Point for Me - Vijay Shankar

Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar believes that good performance in this season is the turning point for him. The right-hander scored 212 runs in the 11 innings he played in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. The Tamil Nadu player scored his runs at an average of 53 and struck his runs at a strike rate of 143.24.

Furthermore, Shankar gave finishing touches to the Delhi Daredevils team in a couple of matches. The all-rounder grew in confidence after playing an unbeaten knock of 54 off just 31 balls against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

This season has done Shankar a world of good.

Shankar said that he focussed more on his preparation after not doing well in the first three-four matches. Shankar added that he wanted to create an impact for his team.

Vijay Shankar said while talking to TOI, “I was not getting runs under my belt in the first 3-4 matches and that was disappointing. After the first few games, I chose to concentrate more on my preparation. I wanted to create an impact whenever I went in to bat — irrespective of the number of balls I faced”.

Shankar has grown in confidence:

The all-rounder added that quickfire knock against the Super Kings added to his confidence bag. Shankar added that such innings are needed for every player to cement his place in the playing XI.

“The innings versus CSK gave me tremendous self-confidence. Such knocks are needed for every cricketer in order to find his footing in the team,” Vijay Shankar said.

Shankar maintained this season is a turning point for him. As he received the chance to bat at different positions, it helped him in tackling different situations.

Consequently, Shankar believes that his ability to read the game became better after performing well.

“The season has been a turning point for me. I have batted at various positions in this IPL, and it has helped me to adapt to different situations. I can say that my ability to read the game has become better as well,” he said.

Shankar received help from Ricky Ponting.

Shankar added that he was determined to improve his game after his mundane performance.

The right-handed batter then went on to head coach Ricky Ponting to seek help. Shankar added that Ponting’s wise words helped him in improving his game.

Delhi Daredevils all-rounder added, “Right after my second game — when I failed to contribute much with the bat — I went up to Ricky and told him how frustrated I was with that. I was harsh on myself for having not done well. But, his message was simple as he stressed on the importance of backing my technique at all times and preparing to the best of my ability”.

This good performance in the IPL has done a world of good for Shankar. The all-rounder had felt the pressure after he was not able to perform well in the (Tri-nation) Nidahas trophy final.

Vijay Shankar has definitely grown in confidence as he received a shot in the arm after his good performance. The Tamil Nadu player will like to continue with his good work going.