In addition to their seasoned core, the Chennai Super Kings are starting to see significant returns from youthful talent in the Indian Premier League. Coach Stephen Fleming is encouraged by Kartik Sharma’s comeback following a sluggish start to the season.
At the IPL auction last year, Kartik, 20, was signed for 142 million rupees ($1.5 million), making him and all-rounder Prashant Veer the most expensive uncapped Indian players.
However, the youthful cricketer had trouble at the start of the tournament, scoring just 58 runs in his first five games.
On Saturday, Chennai trusted him once more, and Kartik returned the favor with an undefeated 54 alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (67 not out) to lead the team to an eight-wicket triumph over the Mumbai Indians while chasing 160 in 18.1 overs.
“It is a big stage no matter what they’ve been doing at domestic level. They can have all the talent in the world, but the temperament is what we’re looking for. Kartik’s introduction was tough at the start and then he had a little bit of time out. He worked hard and today was a good reward for that… We’re really pleased and proud of what he did today,” Reuters quoted Fleming telling reporters.
By pushing Kartik to spend time with former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and mental-skills coach David Reid, CSK management has also helped him deal with the pressure of his price tag.
“The mental aspect of staying calm and understanding what the mind and body are doing is reasonably untapped in this competition. We have had one of the best in MS Dhoni, who has been as calm as anyone can be in winning games. So learning from him but also understanding a little bit more of the science around it,” Fleming said.
The five-time winners, who lost their most productive batter, 18-year-old Ayush Mhatre, to a hamstring injury, are relieved by Kartik’s prompt return to form.
CSK, who are now in sixth place, will take on the Delhi Capitals on Tuesday.
