Ashwin’s presence is a morale-boost, says Dragons’ Jagadeesan

The youngster from Coimbatore has been a solid opener for the Dindigul Dragons, scoring 115 runs in his two outings. When asked on his great form with the bat, he said, “Well, I’ve tried nothing special over here. I’ve just been batting the way I always bat and it’s been working out for me so far. I’m just going to be the same way I was and prepare the same way,” he told the TNPL website. 

Being a part of the India Cements TN Premier League is a big deal for a lot of youngsters. Says Jagadeesan, “Not only me but every other youngster is also excited about the TNPL because you play in front of a big crowd and cameras. It’s a new exposure for and everyone is trying to do their best.” 

The Dindigul squad has the added advantage of having India spinner R Ashwin in the squad. He excitedly explains, “When Ashwin arrived, it was a big morale-booster for everyone. He’s been really chill with us.” 

Having played cricket from the age of eight, Jagadeesan credits to his father CJ Narayan as well his coaches Guruswamy and Vinod. A fast bowler to begin with, he had to switch to wicket-keeping due to a suspect bowling action. Growing up, he had two role models in Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni.

The Tami Nadu Premier League caravan will move from Chennai and Dindigul to the third city, Tirunelveli from Thursday. In the first match at the Sankar Nagar ground, Dindigul Dragons will take on VB Thiruvallur Veerans. Both the teams occupy the top two slots on the points table and fans would hope Thursday’s clash would be worth their money. The Dragons are the back of an impressive performance against Kanchi Warrors having dominated in all departments while the Veerans edged Madurai Super Giants in a closely fought encounter.