Chetan Sakriya. Image: IPL/BCCI
Chetan Sakriya. Image: IPL/BCCI

Indian pacer Chetan Sakariya opened up on his tough phase in IPL 2022 regarding his mental health. The 24-year-old Saurashtra left-arm pace bowler was bought for INR 4.2 crore by Delhi Capitals in IPL 2022.

However, Sakariya played just three games for the Rishabh Pant-led side this season and warmed the bench for the rest of the fixtures. Delhi Capitals preferred experienced left-arm pacers like Khaleel Ahmed and Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman.

My confidence level dropped a bit when I wasn’t playing: Chetan Sakariya

Sakariya said his self-confidence had gone for a toss due to the insufficient opportunities provided to him. The self-doubts crept in the player’s mind and forced him into isolation.

Chetan Sakariya, IPL 2022
Chetan Sakariya (Credits: BCCI/IPL)

When Delhi Capitals bought me, I did think that I would get to play all the games. I wasn’t demotivated when I didn’t play, but my confidence level dropped a bit and there was self-doubt,” Sakariya told Sportskeeda.

“But there was a change in my mental toughness. I went into a shell in the initial 10-12 days of the IPL,” he added.

Shane Watson called me into his room and spoke at length: Chetan Sakariya

Sakariya revealed how Delhi Capitals team management comprising head coach Ricky Ponting and assistant coach Shane Watson supported him during his mental toughness.

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Shane Watson Sir realised that I was feeling low and although I was focusing on practice, something was off. So, sir called me in his room and spoke at length about many things. That made me feel a lot better,” Sakariya said.

Watson and Ponting
Shane Watson and Ricky Ponting. Image: Cricket Australia

“Ricky sir also knew this thing (about him feeling low). He always used to come and talk and used to tell that there needs to be frustration, only then you are a true player. This is what motivates you to do better when an opportunity comes,” he added.

In the match between Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders, Sakariya crashed into opener Aaron Finch’s stumps with an inswinging delivery.

After dismissing Australia’s white-ball skipper, Sakariya clenched his fists and crossed his arms, and put them on his chest before placing two fingers on his forehead while closing his eyes.

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