Emerging Delhi cricketer Ayush Doseja has been making waves in domestic circuits, showcasing not just talent but also a deep understanding of the game. In an exclusive interview, Doseja opened up about his journey, the challenges he has faced, and the inspiration he draws from Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli.
Reflecting on the DPL Season So Far
When asked about his performance in the current season, Doseja was candid about the highs and lows. “It feels really good. There’s a very positive feeling. We had a strong start in the first three matches, and then we dipped a bit. But now, every batter knows their role clearly, and I know my role too. In the upcoming matches, I plan to execute well for the team and perform better,” he said.
He also addressed the team’s fluctuating performances in chasing different targets. “Obviously, chasing smaller totals in T20s is always challenging. When the target is big, we usually know how to approach it and play positive cricket. But for smaller totals, we need to strategize and read the game properly. We’ve discussed this, and every batter is aware of their role. Hopefully, we won’t repeat these mistakes moving forward,” he explained.
Overcoming Injury and Family Support
Doseja revealed that injuries were a tough phase in his career but credited his support system for helping him through. “From the start, my family has supported me a lot my mom, dad, grandparents, brother and my aunty and uncle. Regarding my ankle injury, my physio Deepak Sury Sir treated me very well, and I did rehab with him over a long period after the last season. I am also grateful to Deepak Sury Sir, my coaches Ajay Chaudhary Sir and Jitesh Dagar Sir. I am truly thankful for all their support,” he said.
Early Beginnings and Childhood Memories
Speaking about his cricketing roots, Doseja said, “I started playing cricket when I was six or seven. My father and grandfather used to bowl in our backyard, and I used to play with a plastic bat. Those memories are very special, and I still cherish them. My childhood coach, Uday Bhan Sir, also supported me a lot.”
He recalled his early cricketing memories: “Before the 2011 World Cup, I wasn’t serious about pursuing cricket professionally. But after that World Cup, I decided to take it seriously. I focused on both batting and bowling, but Virat Kohli truly inspired me. I worked a lot on my fitness, and eventually, I got my breakthrough for the Delhi Under-19 team. That was the beginning of my professional journey.”
Inspired by Kohli: Fitness, Mentality, and Resilience
Doseja spoke at length about the qualities he admires in Kohli. “What connects me the most with Virat Sir is his fitness and mentality, and how he carries himself off the field. When your performance isn’t going well, you need to find a way to get yourself back. Cricket has moments where success is limited, and it challenges you emotionally more than anything else. Very few people support you during those times, apart from family, coaches, and trainers. That’s why learning to recover yourself mentally is so important. I learn a lot from Virat Sir’s mentality and fitness regime,” he said.
Looking Ahead to the IPL and Role Models
He also shared insights from fellow players about the IPL. “Nitish Rana and Hrithik Shokeen told me that the skill gap isn’t that huge in the IPL; it’s all about staying mentally strong and focusing on delivering in the right situations,” Doseja added.
With his disciplined approach, strong support system, and clear inspiration from Virat Kohli, Ayush Doseja seems poised to make a mark in Indian cricket, both in domestic tournaments and potentially on the IPL stage.
