Kolkata: Isn’t it unusual that so many well-known cricketers, including players of India’s U-19 World Cup-winning side, were a part of the IPL 2022 Mega Auction and yet Bengal’s Abhishek Porel was left off the list?
At a time when his teammates went on to make crores in the recent IPL 2022 Mega Auction, Abhishek, cousin of Bengal speedster Ishan Porel, opted to focus on Ranji Trophy.
“My priority is India’s premier domestic tournament – Ranji Trophy,” Abhishek told Sportslight Media in an exclusive interaction. The wicketkeeper-cum-batsman wasn’t a part of the initial squad but was flown in as a back up after six players tested positive for COVID.
India won the ICC U-19 World Cup for the fifth time beating England in the final. Abhishek also expressed that his sudden call-up for India squad was the most unexpected incident that happened in his life. And it was meant to be everything a young cricketer could possibly want.
The Coochbehar boy stated that he need not take any extra pressure while thinking about whether he will get the opportunity or not. He was always mentally prepared to get on the field. He also underlined the need for teamwork within the squad.
“For achieving victory on the field, it is very crucial to play as one unit,” said 18-year-old Abhishek. “My family is delighted to have two World Cup winners under one roof. It’s an extraordinary moment for us.”
Ishan was a part of the India team that won the 2018 edition of U-19 World Cup. Even Ishan handed over the helmet he wore in the 2018 U-19 World Cup to Abhishek before he flew for the World Cup.
Former West Indies legend Brian Lara congratulated the whole Indian team on their victory. “I am a fan of Brian Lara. And it was a dream come true moment for me,” Abhishek said when he met Lara.
Abhishek disclosed VVS Laxman’s words from the regular team meetings as the former India batsman and currently NCA chief was with the team in the Caribbean. “Before becoming a great cricketer be a good person,” Laxman had said.
He also stated how much this approach has influenced him as well as the other Indian players and it somewhere one of the reasons why Abhishek intend to focus one at a time and grow in life both professionally and universally.
