At 921, I had my heart in my mouth: Pranav Dhanawade

Batting prodigy Pranav Dhanawade on Tuesday made headlines with his record-breaking unbeaten innings of 1009 runs after finishing day one on 652 runs. The 15-year-old struck 129 fours and 59 sixes in his 327-ball knock while representing his school KC Gandhi School against Arya Gurukul School in the U-16 HT Bhandari Trophy Inter-School Cricket Tournament.

Carrying from the overnight score of 652, the youngster added another 366 runs in 128 balls to take the record virtually out of anyone’s reach. Sportskeeda spoke exclusively to this wicket keeping batsman, who has set high standards for himself in the near future.

What were your thoughts when you were nearing 1000-run mark?

I just focused on the momentum that was in front of me. I played my shots because I had to play with the same pace that I carried on yesterday. At one moment I thought I completed my 1000 runs but next moment I was told that I was six runs short. And very next ball I hit a six over long on fence.

Were you nervous as you neared 1000 runs?

I was never nervous during my innings. In fact, I wanted to capitalise on the opportunity that came my way. It is very rare that such opportunities come your way, so I wanted to make it count.

Did you preplan to complete your 1000 runs with a six?

I never planned my fours and sixes. I played my shots according to the balls that came my way. As I mentioned earlier, I thought I had completed my 1000 runs the previous ball. But the scorers said that I needed 6 runs more. And when the next ball was bowled, I thought it was in my range and gave it my all.

How did your previous night go?

I was so tired yesterday that I slept early after having my dinner. When I woke up next morning I focused on things ahead. I was determined and mentally prepared myself for things ahead.

You were dropped at 921, how would you describe the moment?

I had my heart in my mouth but I was also confident that it would be dropped as it was too high (laughed sheepishly). This was once in a lifetime opportunity and it would have been really a sad moment for me. Glad things went my way.

Who do you idolise in world cricket?

Sachin Tendulkar. All my life I admired him.

What are your future goals now?

My immediate goal is to play for Mumbai U-16 team. Getting into Mumbai team is not easy and coming from Kalyan it is that much higher. My only focus right now is Mumbai and hopefully if the grace of God then India too.

How are you going to celebrate your epic knock?

My mother has made my favourite Chicken Biryani and gajar ka halwa. I hope to feast on that with my family and friends.