Inspiration from seniors,team effort worked: Akshdeep

Talking about the final match of the junior World Cup today, he said,“There was a little pressure initially since we were playing against Australia in Australia but before the match we told ourselves to take it as just another match so that we played with a positive approach. We had defeated Australia in the past also. In April this year,India had triumphed in the quadrangular series in Australia— defeating Australia in the final by seven wickets. The tour had given us an opportunity to get a feel of the pitches and the grounds in Australia.”

Akshdeep said tips given by Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai before the team left for Australia were very beneficial for the team.

“The meeting with Sachin Sir dealt with various aspects like team preparation before such a tournament,the mindset with which we should play etc. He also shared many of his experiences with us. Earlier,in Bangalore we had got a chance to interact with Yuvraj Singh. The advice given by such great players who were an important part of Indian team which won the World Cup motivated us further.”

Responding to a question,Akshdeep said,“Australians play with a lot of aggression but once you give them a good fightback then you can win the match. Approach matters a lot against them.” The youngster informed that they were overwhelmed to see that a lot of Indians had turned-up to support the team and there were big celebrations after the match.

Family elated

Back home at Lucknow also,there is celebration time at his Vikas Nagar residence too. His father Deependra Nath,an account by profession,said,“It’s a great feeling that my son is a member of the junior World Cup winning team. I am not bothered whether his batting came today or not. India defeating defending champions Australia in their home (Australia) is a big thing.” His mother Sindhu said she was feeling happy that she had lost in her ‘fight’ to see Akshdeep concentrate only on studies. “I am very happy that my son is playing for the junior India team. We are proud of the Indian under-19 team. Our elder son Animesh has been celebrating the occasion with laddoos.” Akshdeep’s coach,Gopal Singh said that he plans to honour Akshdeep once he reaches Lucknow.