INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE | RCB DOMINATE BATTING WITH FOUR 200+ TOTALS THIS SEASON
Hyderabad, April 14: For a young man stepping onto the grandest stage of T20 cricket, it was not nerves but clarity that defined Praful Hinge. The Sunrisers Hyderabad debutant, who lit up the Indian Premier League with a stunning spell against Rajasthan Royals, made it clear that personal milestones come second — the ultimate aim is far bigger.
“My first goal is definitely to win and lift the trophy,” Hinge said, his words carrying the weight of ambition and quiet belief. “Secondly, if I get the opportunity, I will try to win as many matches as I can for my side and give my 100 per cent.”
The 24-year-old from Vidarbha, often dubbed the “Fearless Prodigy”, announced himself in style, scripting history by becoming the first bowler in IPL history to pick up three wickets in the opening over of a match. He finished with four wickets on debut and walked away with the Player of the Match award — a performance that dismantled Rajasthan Royals and underlined his immense potential.
Yet, beneath the headline-making debut lies a rather simple philosophy. Hinge revealed that his preparation has been more mental than technical, built on constant self-questioning and visualisation. “I didn’t prepare anything special as such. Whenever I watch a match, I ask myself what I would do in that situation, how I would bowl. Even if it’s a World Cup game, I imagine facing the best batters and plan my approach,” he explained.
It is this habit of thinking through match scenarios that has shaped his mindset — one that remains grounded despite early success.
There is no rush for glory, only a steady focus on contribution. And perhaps, a touch of flair.
“Apart from that, I would love to take one of the best catches in the IPL and aim for the Best Fielder award,” he added with a smile.
Hinge’s remarkable spell, alongside Sakib Hussain’s support, saw Sunrisers Hyderabad bundle out Rajasthan Royals in pursuit of a daunting 217, sealing a commanding 57-run victory and halting the Royals’ four-match winning streak.
With two wins from five matches, Sunrisers Hyderabad now sit fourth on the points table and will next face Chennai Super Kings at home. For Hinge, however, the road ahead is already mapped — one match at a time, one contribution at a time, all leading towards a single, unwavering dream: lifting the IPL trophy. (Agencies)
