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Opening the batting in Australia was more about my mindset: Hanuma Vihari
Hanuma Vihari emerged as the leading run-scorer for India in the recently concluded Test series against West Indies
Hanuma Vihari was in brilliant form in the two match Test series against West Indies. He amassed 289 runs at an average of 96.33 including two fifties and one century which helped him emerge as the leading run-scorer of the series. However, he believes in treating every Test match as his last as it helps him to be focused and guard himself against complacency.
"Obviously I am very happy that I have done well but I went into this tour with a clean slate. I decided to take one Test match at a time. For me, every Test match is my last. It helps me get into a mindset that I have nothing to lose and play accordingly," said the 25 year old Andhra batsman.
Skipper Virat Kohli also heaped praise on Vihari for his performance in the carribean.
"You can't ask for anything more if the change room has faith in your abilities. That is certainly the best compliment I could have got and coming from the skipper himself, it can't get better."
Vihari who has scored 456 runs from 6 Tests at the international circuit averages more than 60 after playing 75 first-class games.
On his calm demeanour, Vihari said, "It has happened because of the years of hard work that I put in at the domestic level. Before playing for India, I had played nearly 60 first-class games. I have faced pressure situations at the first-class level. It prepared me for bigger challenges. Thanks to the Andhra Cricket Association and MSK Prasad sir for giving me a chance to play for Andhra."
Vihari, in his short career at the Test level has faced several challenges. In fact, he was asked to open the innings in Australia.
"Opening the batting in Australia was more about my mindset. I wasn't a natural opener and that was the biggest challenge. So either I could have just sat and sulked that I am being asked to bat in an unfamiliar position or just accept the challenge and make the best use of the opportunity that I was being given. I decided on the second option."
Hanuma Vihari is expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming Test series against South Africa at home.
