Delhi-based wicketkeeper-batter Anuj Rawat is currently making waves in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) as a key player for the East Delhi Riders. At just 24 years old, Anuj has emerged as one of the top performers for his team, helping them secure a spot in the semifinals with an impressive 16 points. Under the leadership of Himmat Singh, Rawat aims to lead his team to victory in the tournament while also setting his sights on a future with the Indian national team.
“I want to help my team win the DPL. As a senior player, it is very important for me to do well and gain confidence here and then take it to the upcoming domestic season and perform well there for Delhi,” Anuj stated in a recent interview with CricketNext. His commitment to his team and personal growth reflects a mature approach to his cricketing career.
Versatility as a Key Strength
Anuj Rawat’s versatility as a batter sets him apart from many of his peers. While he prefers to open the innings, he has experience batting in various positions, including the middle order and as a finisher. This adaptability is a crucial aspect of his game, allowing him to make impactful contributions regardless of his batting position.
“If you ask me as an established batter, I would like to open the innings, but I have played in different positions. Be it as an opener, in the middle order, or as a finisher even. And I think this thing separates me from others,” he explained. His ability to perform across different roles not only enhances his value to the team but also prepares him for the diverse demands of professional cricket.
In the 2022 IPL season with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Rawat opened the innings, showcasing his skills at the top. In contrast, during the 2024 season, he made a significant impact as a finisher. This flexibility in batting positions is a testament to his dedication to improving his game continuously.
Aspirations for the Future
Anuj’s ultimate goal is to represent India on the international stage. He believes that consistent performances in the DPL and subsequent domestic seasons will pave the way for his selection in the national team. “If I manage to keep performing well, I will get a chance to play for India as well,” he remarked, demonstrating his ambition and focus.
While acknowledging the growing popularity of T20 cricket, Anuj maintains a deep appreciation for Test cricket. “IPL has come, so all the cricketers always have the preference for T20s. But if you see, Test cricket has its own charm, and nothing can match that, be it ODI cricket or T20s,” he stated. His commitment to excelling in all formats highlights his holistic approach to cricket.
Learning from the Best
Anuj has had the privilege of sharing the dressing room with cricketing legend Virat Kohli during his time at RCB. He credits Kohli’s work ethic and preparation for significantly influencing his own game. “It is a very big thing to share the dressing room with him. You can learn a lot by seeing his preparations for the matches and with his performances in the matches as well,” Anuj noted.
This mentorship has been invaluable for Anuj as he navigates the challenges of professional cricket, and he aims to incorporate these lessons into his own training and gameplay.
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RCB’s Resilience in IPL 2024
Reflecting on RCB’s performance in the 2024 IPL season, Anuj shared insights into the team’s resilience. After a rocky start, losing seven out of their first eight matches, RCB made a remarkable comeback, winning six consecutive matches to secure a playoff spot. “There was nothing like a turnaround because even when we were losing matches in the start, those things were not affecting our players or the team atmosphere at all,” he recalled.
This mental fortitude and teamwork were crucial in navigating the early setbacks, and Anuj believes that the strategic discussions led by senior players played a significant role in their recovery.
Future Aspirations in IPL
Anuj made his IPL debut with Rajasthan Royals in 2021 and has been with RCB since 2022. He expressed a strong desire to continue with RCB in the upcoming season, stating, “Whoever has played for RCB once wants to play for them forever.” However, he also mentioned a potential interest in joining Chennai Super Kings if not retained, citing MS Dhoni’s influence and leadership as a major attraction.
As Anuj Rawat continues to shine in the Delhi Premier League, his journey reflects the aspirations and determination of a young cricketer striving to make his mark in the sport. With his versatility, commitment, and the lessons learned from seasoned players, Anuj is well on his way to achieving his dreams in cricket.
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