 2024 auction, young and uncapped talent Kumar Kushagra emerged as one of the most sought-after players){kind=link}
In a spectacular turn of events at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction, young and uncapped talent Kumar Kushagra emerged as one of the most sought-after players, securing a staggering deal with the Delhi Capitals for a whopping Rs. 7.20 crore. This move not only marked a significant milestone in Kushagra’s cricketing career but also unveiled the promise made by Delhi Capitals’ mentor, Sourav Ganguly.
At the trials held at the iconic Eden Gardens, Ganguly was quick to recognize Kushagra’s extraordinary skills. The budding wicket-keeper batter showcased an impressive six-hitting ability, a flair for playing in the field, and wicket-keeping skills that drew comparisons to the legendary MS Dhoni. Little did Kushagra and his father, Shashikant, anticipate the magnitude of Ganguly’s belief in the young cricketer.
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“After the trials at Eden, Ganguly told Kushagra that he would play for the Delhi Capitals and the franchise would bid for him till Rs 10 crore,” revealed Shashikant in an interview with The Indian Express. The elation and surprise were palpable as Ganguly’s promise materialized into a substantial contract for the uncapped player with a base price of Rs. 20 lakh.
Reflecting on the pivotal moment, Shashikant confessed, “I thought he will get picked by Capitals at the base price. For a few minutes, I was so numb. One can only think about miracles, and today was that kind of day. He was confident because Ganguly had promised him, but I thought he must have said this to encourage him.”
Kushagra’s journey to cricketing stardom was shaped by his father’s dedication and passion for the game. Shashikant, who had never played cricket at any level, took it upon himself to coach his son. Drawing inspiration from the book “Art and Science of Cricket” by Bob Woolmer, Shashikant transformed into his son’s mentor, reading the book multiple times to impart the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the sport.
The story of Kumar Kushagra is not only a testament to raw talent meeting opportunity but also highlights the impact of mentorship and belief in shaping a promising career. As the IPL 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Kushagra as he dons the Delhi Capitals jersey, carrying the weight of expectations and the promise made by none other than the legendary Sourav Ganguly. This tale of triumph serves as inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a reminder that dreams can indeed become a reality with the right mix of talent, dedication, and a bit of cricketing magic.