Four cricketers interact with MICA students giving them insights into their careers, training and experiences.

On Wednesday, Gujarat Titans cricketers left a lasting impression on MICA students as they interacted with them at the institute’s Mani Iyer Auditorium. Four players from the team—Ishant Sharma, Sai Sudharsan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Anuj Rawat—engaged in a Q&A and Rapid Fire session, offering valuable insights into their careers, training, and experiences in professional cricket.

First-year student Maheshwari Rawat described the experience as surreal, praising the players for their humility and down-to-earth personalities. “They were all incredibly humble,” Rawat remarked, recalling how Ishant Sharma emphasized the importance of team goals over personal achievements. Sharma shared that even if a player performs exceptionally well individually, they cannot truly be satisfied if the team doesn’t win. “The goal is only to win,” he said, highlighting the dedication and unity within the team as a key to their success.

Throughout the session, the players reflected on their early days in cricket and spoke about the significant role of coaches and mentors in shaping their careers. They elaborated on their rigorous training routines, stressing the importance of discipline and consistency to maintain peak performance. The discussion also touched upon the transition between various formats of the game, shedding light on how adaptability plays a crucial role in a cricketer’s career.

The conversation delved into handling pressure, overcoming failure, and the increasing influence of data analytics in modern cricket. “It was a lifetime experience to hear these players candidly share their personal stories and lessons,” said Vishakha Kejriwal, a second-year MICA student. “Their perspective on failure—treating it as a learning experience—was particularly inspiring.”

Another key theme that emerged from the discussion was team dynamics and adaptability. The cricketers shared how they work with teammates from diverse backgrounds and adapt to new environments, underscoring the importance of collaboration and flexibility in achieving success.

The session offered students a unique opportunity to gain insights into the mindset and dedication required to excel in professional sports, leaving them motivated and inspired.

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