Chaturved credits tactical work after record 40-ball century in TNPL chase

N.S. Chaturved said in Dindigul on Sunday, a day after his record 40-ball century (121 off 47 balls) propelled Madurai Panthers to a 240 chase against Vida Kovai Kings in the TNPL, that working on small things tactically had helped. The 35-year-old spoke by phone about his approach following the innings.

“I knew I had this kind of game. I just wanted to go and react to the ball. That was the only thought I had,” said the 35-year-old over phone on Sunday, a day after his record 40-ball century (121 off 47 balls) powered Madurai Panthers to a stunning chase of 240 against Vida Kovai Kings. He credited preparations during the pre-season camp with head coach K.B. Arun Karthick for his readiness.

“We worked on small things tactically - like, how I can use my footwork. What kind of footwork to use for which bowler and how to challenge them. That came in handy - which moments to choose and all,” he added, describing the specific technical work undertaken with Arun Karthick.

“He is bringing a lot of calmness to the team - how we can keep things simple even in the most desperate moments. And that calmness is helping,” said Chaturved, pointing to the coach’s influence beyond batting instruction.

Chaturved’s innings was a record 40-ball century, finishing 121 off 47 balls, and it underpinned Madurai Panthers’ chase of 240 against Vida Kovai Kings. The performance followed two seasons in which he had not reached a fifty.

“R. Ashwin, C.V. Varun, and Washi (Washington Sundar) have sent messages. To get all that praise from eminent Tamil Nadu cricketers definitely feels special,” he said, reporting the reactions he received from leading state players.

“I got starts last season, but I just couldn’t carry on. Two seasons had gone by with small contributions. So, when I came into this TNPL, I just wanted to contribute a lot more. It (the record) gives me more confidence in my own ability,” he said, underlining his intention to build on the innings during the rest of the TNPL campaign.