An Interview with Vijay Zol :- "I am more focused on the process than the outcome"

Vijay Hari Zol is an Indian cricketer. He is a left-handed middle-order batsman who plays for Maharashtra. In 2012, he signed a youth contract with the IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore. He was recently elected as a captain for the Under-19 Triangular Series in Australia in 2013.

Q. Being selected the captain of the U19 Indian team means you’re the next upcoming star. Does that overwhelm you?

It’s a good feeling of course. I am taking it step by step. I will try to give my best. I am more focused on the process than the outcome. It’s a big responsibility and I will try to deliver what is expected from me.

Q. What have you learned from previous captains like Virat Kohli and Unmukt Chand when it comes to captaining the national side?

I have learnt how to stay calm under pressure. Also to take good decisions during crucial times. They both have a good balance of calm and aggressive leadership, which is good.

Q. Md. Kaif, Virat Kohli, Unmukt Chand – these players have formerly been U19 Indian captains . Do these names create an extra bit of pressure?

No, there is no pressure as such. I am enjoying the moment and my cricket as of now. I was a part of the winning World Cup U19 team, and it has given me a lot of confidence and self belief. The valuable experience I gained then has helped me a lot.

Q. This will be your first tournament as captain in Australia. How do you intend to approach the tournament?

As I said earlier,I have played in Australia during the last U19 World Cup and I am aware of the conditions there. I have an idea of how to go about things there. I have a very good team to lead. Most of us have been playing together in the domestic matches. The team is gelling well and the practice matches which we have been playing are helping us a lot. I have players like Sanju and Akhil in the team, who have experience of playing with the seniors, which will be of great help.

Q. You have already played with Unmukt Chand, who is regarded as the next big thing in Indian cricket. Does his success inspire you to do better?

He is a good friend. He has led a World Cup-winning team and is a very good player. His aggressive way of captaincy is also good.

Q. As a batsman, are you ready to handle the extra bounce that you will face on the Australian tracks?

I have an advantage of playing there twice already. The entire team is practising at NCA, Bangalore, under the same conditions to adapt to them in a better way. I am sure extra bounce is not going to be any problem for us with the kind of preparation we are undertaking.

Q. The new breed of Indian cricketers seem to have an aggressive mentality and they bat with intent and largely unafraid. Do you also buy into that philosophy?

Well yes, I bat without being afraid. It depends on what kind of situation one is facing while playing. I act according to the situations. One can’t always be aggressive while hitting on field.

Q. You signed for the RCB last season. How was the experience of sharing the dressing room with Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli?

It was great to be in the same dressing room as they were. I have learnt a lot from both of them. I have been speaking to them for past two years and will surely implement all the advice they gave me.

Q. Who is your idol and whom do you model your game on?

I like Virender Sehwag for being the dynamic batsman that he is. I don’t model my game on anyone. I bat like myself.

Q. Does the IPL really the Indian youngsters or does it act as a distraction?

It’s a great platform for youngsters like me. We are exposed to international standard cricket and face quality bowlers. Also, it helps us develop our mental strength and teaches us how to handle pressure well.

Q. What was your first reaction when you heard that you had been appointed as the captain?

I was overwhelmed. I was leading a team during the practice matches and was in the race of captaincy. Once I came to know that I was leading, I felt honoured.

Q. You played in the U19 team that won the World Cup. How did it feel to succeed against the odds?

Winning against Australia during the World Cup was the best part. Hopefully this time we can do the same. We have the same coach – Mr. Bharat Arun sir – who is working hard with all of us.

Q. Will you have a chat with Unmukt before you go for the tour?

Yes definitely. I am great friends with him and will speak about the upcoming tournaments to him.