Mayank Markande Looking Forward To Rubbing Shoulders With Steve Smith And Ben Stokes In IPL 2020

Mayank Markande, Rajasthan Royals leg-spinner, has said that even though his stint with the Mumbai Indians earned him a lot of praise and recognition, his priorities and loyalty solely lie with his new franchise.

Marakande, who made a sensational IPL debut for the Mumbai Indians against Chennai Super Kings two years ago, became the first player to be traded twice in the trading window. He was first traded from Mumbai Indians to Delhi Capitals and then from Delhi to Rajasthan Royals.

“The stint with Mumbai Indians helped me a lot and I will always be grateful for it. But my loyalty is now with the Royals and I can’t wait to get started.” Mayank Markande was quoted as saying by Sportskeeda.

“I will work on my mental strength”- Mayank Markande

Mayank Markande earned a call-up to the India T20 side following his performances for MI in IPL 2018 and then for India A. The leggie, however, could not capitalize on his opportunity.

With an eye towards regaining his spot for the upcoming T20 World Cups, Markande is working on the mental side of things and is looking forward to rubbing shoulders with the likes of Steve Smith, Ben Stokes and learn how to approach the game when the going gets ‘tough’.

“I will work on my mental strength. I am lucky that I will share the dressing room with Steve Smith and Ben Stokes, and learn from them how to approach the game when the going gets tough,” he added.

Markande also opened up on the role of a leg-spinner. Leg-spinners are the X-factors of any side in limited-overs cricket, especially in the shortest format of the game. And, that is because of their ability to create chances on a flat track in the middle-overs. Yes, he might go for runs sometimes, but Markande believes a leg-spinner should always go for wickets, even if that means going for a few extra runs.

“A leg spinner’s job is to take wickets, be it in the powerplays, or middle or slog overs. Sometimes, batsmen take you to the cleaners but a leggie must keep attacking and getting people out.” Mayank Markande added.

Also Read- Why Brad Hogg Thinks Delhi Capitals Will Finish Lower In IPL 2020