Will touch his feet: Punjab Kings' Vishal Nishad on taking Kohli's wicket

Punjab Kings' new player Vishal Nishad, set for his IPL debut, revealed his admiration for idol Virat Kohli. He said if he took Kohli's wicket, he'd touch his feet. Nishad also shared his journey of perseverance and family sacrifice.

Punjab Kings' newest addition, Vishal Nishad, is all set to make his mark as he prepares for his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut this year, according to a release. During the pre-season camp in Udaipur, the 20-year-old engaged in a candid conversation with the team, sharing insights into the journey and experiences that have shaped him.

A massive fan of Virat Kohli, Nishad spoke about how the former Indian captain inspired him to take up the sport. "My idol is Virat Kohli. I am inspired by his attitude and his drive; he's my favourite," Nishad said. However, with the prospect of facing his idol on the pitch, Nishad was asked how he would celebrate if he managed to take Kohli's wicket. "If I take his wicket, I'll touch his feet because he's my idol," he replied, displaying the unique blend of ambition and humility that defines the Punjab Kings spirit.

A Journey of Grit and Perseverance

A standout product of a local T20 league and as a testament to perseverance, Nishad joined the Kings, following a journey marked by grit and family sacrifice. "There were tough times. I used to go with my father and help him [with work]. I even thought I'd quit cricket," Nishad recalled. "My mother told me to leave it and learn something else because becoming a cricketer is so difficult. But I didn't give up. I told her, 'Mom, I will definitely do it.' Once they saw my resolve, my family stood behind me."

From Tennis Ball to Leather Ball

Originally a tennis player, Vishal was encouraged to transition to professional cricket by a friend impressed by his natural 'ball throwing' skills. "Initially, I played tennis-ball cricket. A friend watched me throw and suggested to try the leather ball because he liked my action. After that, I decided to practice seriously. That's how it all started," he revealed.

He added, "My coach didn't charge me fees for three years. Eventually, I played in a local T20 tournament in Uttar Pradesh and performed well. After two years of playing in the tournament, I landed up here (with Punjab Kings)." Explaining his choice to become a bowler, Nishad noted how his background in tennis-ball cricket played a pivotal role: "As I was practising with the tennis ball initially, I got used to making it spin. I adapted my tennis-ball skills to the leather ball, which played a major role in my becoming a bowler." (ANI)

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