Minutes after Siddhesh Lad was done with his stint in the nets at the Wankhede yesterday, he was summoned by Mumbai's experienced all-rounder Abhishek Nayar. The latter then wrapped his arm around Lad's shoulder and the duo spoke to each other for quite some time.
This is the sort of attention that is being paid to Lad, who is being looked upon as a promising talent. The 21-year-old was one of Mumbai’s stand-out players in their previous game against Delhi, scoring 74 and 85 in the draw.
Mumbai’s Siddhesh Lad during practice at Wankhede yesterday. Pics/Atul Kamble
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So how has the experience been so far for Siddhesh? “Frankly, I am not satisfied with my knocks so far. But yes, I am happy that I have made a decent start,” Siddhesh told MiD DAY yesterday.
“I did not fare well against Punjab, so there was some pressure on me when we played Delhi. I am happy I handled it well,” he said with a hint of a smile.
As every player will vouch, no one in the Mumbai set-up has enjoyed the luxury of taking his place for granted, and that’s precisely why Siddhesh wants to make every appearance for the 40-time champions count.
“I am keen to build on my performance against Delhi and would ensure that I hit as many runs as possible after I have got a start.”
Mumbai who are already without the services of Rohit Sharma, who is part of the Indian team for the ODIs against West Indies, will witness another vacancy when Rahane and Zaheer leave to join the national squad after this game.
Needless to say, the likes of Siddhesh will be expected to rise to the challenge, and that’s what he is gearing up for.
“I just want to stay focused and try to exert as little pressure on myself as possible. If I can succeed, I am sure I will get the runs,”u00a0he said.u00a0
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