Aparajith continues to sizzle

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B. Aparajith has submitted further proof of his impressive talent. Fresh from his success in the under-19 Asia Cup, the youngster began the season with a cracking 184 (164b, 32x4) for Vijay CC against heavyweights Jolly rovers at the IIT Chemplast. The pace Aparajith set was frenetic — even a triple hundred was within reach on the opening day.

“The wicket was excellent to bat on and the outfield was quick as well. I have been dismissed in the 180s before and wanted a double hundred badly but in trying to clear the fielder at covers hit the ball too straight only to find long-off”, said Aparajith who had also scored a hundred in the Palyampatti Shield final last month.

The 17-year-old is the lone representative from Tamil Nadu in the Indian (U-19) World cup team. Although his selection was only a formality, Aparajith noted the moment was priceless.

“I have been doing well for India and the 90 I made in the Asia Cup final gave me immense satisfaction. Knew I would be in the team yet it was special feeling to see my name in the newspaper the next morning,” added Aparajith.

Regarding India’s chances at the World Cup, Aparajith said: “We have been playing a lot together and have understood each other. To compete against a team like Pakistan twice before the big event has helped us understand our own game better. I am confident we will do well in Australia.”

Aparajith like any other modern day cricketer has to dabble between formats. It’s a job easier said than done. The aggressive innings on Thursday indicated he was still in one-day mode. “I did attempt to play as many shots as possible.

I have spoke to seniors and learnt that adjusting to formats is all in the mind and I am working on it. I was happy to have rotated strike as well, but I was at times playing like it was a one-day game,” explained the youngster.

Vijay CC have galloped to 412 for four, thanks to Aparajith and his 180-run stand with V. Maaruthi Raghav who is unbeaten on 127 (219b, 19x4, 1x6). The defending champions could not have asked for a better start to the season. Aparajith, as normal practice in recent times, has provided the impetus.