A tall unassuming leg-spinner from Pune Warriors is making a big impression in the fourth season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Rahul Sharma, who played for Deccan Chargers last year, would not have even been in the reckoning had it not been for his determination and the confidence reposed in him by the then-Deccan captain, Adam Gilchrist.
The right-armer had suffered a potentially career threatening eye injury last year which was declared by Doctors as the Bell's palsy syndrome. At that time the talented spinner felt that his career was over.
“I was devastated as I desperately wanted to play. But I was weak after taking medication for my condition.” Stated Sharma as he spoke to the media discussing his rise this year, which has seen him snare 16 wickets in the tournament at less than 6 runs per over, which is an outstanding economy rate for the crash, bang and wallop T20 format.
Sharma has been representing the Warriors after he was bought by the newcomers for this season. Last year though, it was the Australian legend Gilchrist who is leading Punjab this season, who inspired Rahul in the face of adversity.
Gilchrist’s unwavering support has left a lasting mark of gratitude on Sharma.
“Gilchrist said I had to push myself to play, no matter what. He has been the most supportive,” Sharma said. “He is a very dedicated person and talks a lot to his team-mates.”
Gilchrist told the leg-spinner that he would be accommodated in every way possible and all that was needed of him was commitment on the field. The wicket-keeping great also came up with a compromise for the 24-year-old, making him field in the 30-yard circle, armed with eye-drops and a towel.
Sharma disclosed that he was in a real discomfort during the league last year and could not even close his right eye; it was so bad that it used to remain open throughout.
He was forced to use eye-drops after every ball, he was also armed with a towel which used to help him clear water off his eyes which used to accumulate almost after every ball.
The lanky spinner continued to play and his determination rubbed off on the rest of the Deccan teammates, this year around he is reaping rewards for his determination as he spins his way to success.
However, the Warriors have not been able to make much use of his success, the debutants have already been sent packing from the tournament with the semi-finals yet to be played.
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