Tamil Nadu’s wicketkeeper-batter and opener, N. Jagadeesan, made his debut in the Duleep Trophy during the second-round match between India-B and India-C. The match took place on Thursday at the Rural Development Trust (RDT) Stadium B-ground. Jagadeesan’s introduction to the tournament marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his skills and potential at a higher level of competitive cricket.
N. Jagadeesan Talked About Duleep Trophy:
This was N. Jagadeesan’s debut in first-class cricket outside the Ranji Trophy. Although he was part of the South Zone squad that won the title last season, he didn’t get any game time. In the current season, he also missed playing in the first round. His debut in the Duleep Trophy represents a significant step in his career, offering him a valuable opportunity to showcase his talent at a broader level. When he learned he would be making his debut, he felt thrilled and eager, viewing it as a significant opportunity to prove his skills and make a strong impression.
He said, “ It was definitely a very good feeling. It’s because you would always want to be a part of a Duleep Trophy side. Last year, when I was there with my squad, we went on to win the tournament. From that moment onwards, I always thought that next time I should also make my debut. And when I got to know that I’ll be playing, I obviously was very elated about it. I was very eager to go out and just enjoy the game.”
He added, “ I didn’t have the experience of playing any other First Class game. It was just the Ranji Trophy, which I played for Tamil Nadu. So, for the first time when I stepped onto the field, it felt good. It was a different experience. Because, personally, I knew that it was something I was doing for the first time outside of Tamil Nadu cricket.”
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N. Jagadeesan Talked About His Dismissal:
N. Jagadeesan appeared poised to score his first Duleep Trophy century but was dismissed for 70 (137 balls, 8 fours) when he was caught behind by Anshul Kamboj. Despite feeling “very disappointed” with the dismissal, he took pride in how he managed to overcome debut nerves and play his natural game. This experience was a valuable step in his development as a cricketer.
He further said, “ To be honest, I was feeling a bit nervous in the beginning. It was during my keeping. But the moment I got to know nine wickets had fallen (of the opposition) and probably I’d be batting soon, I think I was just focused a lot more on my batting. I was just thinking of all the (batting) routines that I do. Once I started thinking that, I wasn’t nervous at all.”
He added, “ The moment I stepped down to the boundary line with my pads on, I just told myself one thing: ‘You don’t have to worry about anything. You’ve always wanted to make your debut. You’ve made your debut. Now, just go and enjoy yourself out there.’ And after playing the first ball, I just felt I was very confident.”
Jagadeesan pointed out a standout aspect of the current Duleep Trophy edition, emphasizing its notable features and the level of competition it has brought to the tournament. He concluded, “ We have seen a lot of Duleep Trophies, and I think this Duleep Trophy has seen a lot of international players playing the games. Playing with them in such close quarters, you get to learn a lot.”
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