Top News

Vishal Nishad, the latest recruit of Punjab Kings, is gearing up for his debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) this season. During a pre-season training camp in Udaipur, the 20-year-old shared his journey and experiences that have influenced his cricketing path.

A devoted admirer of Virat Kohli, Nishad expressed how the former Indian captain motivated him to pursue cricket. "Virat Kohli is my idol. His determination and attitude inspire me; he is my favorite player," Nishad stated. When asked how he would react if he took Kohli's wicket, he humbly replied, "I would touch his feet because he is my idol," showcasing the blend of ambition and respect that embodies the spirit of Punjab Kings.

Nishad's journey to the Kings is a testament to his perseverance and the sacrifices made by his family. He recounted, "There were challenging moments. I used to assist my father with work and even considered quitting cricket. My mother suggested I pursue something else, as becoming a cricketer is tough. But I remained resolute, telling her, 'Mom, I will make it.' Once my family recognized my determination, they fully supported me."

Initially a tennis player, Vishal was encouraged to switch to cricket by a friend who admired his throwing skills. "I started with tennis-ball cricket. A friend noticed my throwing technique and urged me to try the leather ball. That’s when I began to practice seriously," he explained. He also shared that his coach waived fees for three years, allowing him to focus on his development. After excelling in a local T20 tournament in Uttar Pradesh, he eventually joined Punjab Kings. Nishad attributed his bowling skills to his tennis-ball background, stating, "Practicing with the tennis ball helped me learn to spin, which I adapted to the leather ball, aiding my transition to bowling."