Vyshak Vijaykumar, the vice-captain and pacer of Gulbarga Mystics, is poised to showcase his enhanced skills and bolstered self-assurance in the upcoming Maharaja Trophy Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) T20 tournament.
During the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Vyshak made a significant impact for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise, claiming four wickets in four matches. His impactful bowling spells proved to be game-changers, helping RCB secure victories.
Inspired by his RCB teammates like Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj, Vyshak has adopted a meticulous approach to his game. “Training with Virat Kohli can really impact you as a player,” he remarked. “I paid attention to his work ethic, process, and consistency. Everything he does is done with precision.”
As a seasoned member of the Gulbarga Mystics, Vyshak will mentor and guide the less experienced players. He will draw upon the wisdom imparted to him by his own mentors, such as Siraj, who provided invaluable guidance during his early days in the squad.
“In my first game for RCB, I did well, but then I conceded 60 runs in the next match,” Vyshak recalled. “Siraj told me, ‘This is the game, and this is the challenge at the highest level.’ I am keen to keep this in mind and to pass on these lessons whenever I can.”
Vyshak is determined to surpass the obstacles faced by the Mystics in the previous season, when they finished third without the services of Devdutt Padikkal. “Missing Devdutt made a big difference last season,” he said. “We want to finish stronger this year. We bat deep, and I have been batting well too, so I am hoping to contribute with the bat as well.”
Although stepping down from captaincy, Vyshak is excited to work alongside Padikkal as vice-captain. “I love captaincy, but with Devdutt’s experience and recently his India debut, I am looking forward to supporting him as the vice-captain,” he added.
Vyshak credits the Maharaja Trophy for helping launch his IPL career. “The first season of Maharaja got me noticed and led to my IPL debut,” he remarked. “This platform provided by KSCA is exceptional and a huge opportunity for all of us.”
The Gulbarga Mystics will commence their journey in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 on August 15, facing the Bengaluru Blasters in the tournament’s opening encounter.
