Balance between thinking and execution vital: Rahul Tripathi

The city-based attacking batsman, who is a part of India team for the two T20s in Ireland scheduled later this month, told TOI: “At times you can be honest but still not positive. I also believe that one needs to have the right balance between thinking and execution. Just thinking without working on it or just working without thinking may not give the desired results.” Deccan Gymkhana lad Tripathi, now 31, didn’t take first-class cricket by storm when he made his debut for Maharashtra in 2012.

But he has shown enough chutzpah in IPL — playing for Rising Pune Supergiant, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and now Sunrisers Hyderabad — to be in the reckoning for the India cap. Tripathi is aware that he is included in the Ireland party since India is not fielding a full-strength team. “When you get your first break, it comes this way only.” Steve Smith was the first to see the spark in Tripathi and promoted him to the top order at Pune Supergiant in 2017.

The subsequent team managements experimented with his batting slots and that dented his consistency. “Hrishikesh Kanitkar gave me some important tips,” said Tripathi. “But being associated with Abhishek Nayar (former Mumbai all-rounder) at KKR really rejuvenated me.

His contribution is big in my progress. Now, I am more comfortable about adapting my game according to the team’s requirements. I am confident about expressing myself in the non-powerplay overs too.

“I believe in keeping the scoreboard moving all the time and keep improving my game. I believe in hard work. Being busy also gives me happiness hence I go for a trek or play football when cricket-related activities are less.” Tripathi is grateful for the financial rewards from the IPL.