Jharkhand’s Kumar Kushagra Hails Punjab Performance as Career Highlight

Kumar Kushagra is no stranger to challenges. Time and again, he has stepped up for Jharkhand in crucial moments, particularly as a top-order batter. However, he considers one of his standout performances to be during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League match against Punjab on Friday. Kushagra made the daunting run chase appear effortless with an unbeaten knock of 86 runs from just 42 balls, showcasing his prowess under pressure.

Jharkhand chased down a target of 236 in record fashion, finishing with 11 balls to spare in what became the highest successful chase in the tournament’s history. The match took place on a challenging ‘sticky’ pitch at the DY Patil Academy ground in Ambi. Despite the conditions not favoring the batters, Kushagra persevered, blocking out any distractions.

“The wicket initially was sticky, but we were optimistic that it would improve in the second innings. Nonetheless, we didn’t anticipate Punjab posting 234. Our strategy was to ensure the top three batters anchored the innings, as both senior and junior players’ contributions are crucial in such scenarios,” Kushagra shared with Sportstar on Saturday.

Bolstered by an undefeated group stage performance, the team’s morale was high. After Ishan Kishan’s solid start, it was vital for Kushagra to stay until the end. “I reminded myself that helping the team secure victory here would be significant for both the team and me. After a strong league stage, maintaining momentum was essential,” he said.

Adapting to different formats, Kushagra had limited transition time, but his rigorous pre-season preparation ensured a smooth adjustment. “Switching formats is demanding with little downtime. Mental preparation becomes crucial, and pre-season groundwork is essential. Despite only a day’s gap to shift to white-ball cricket this season, my preparation made it manageable,” he explained. “It’s about mindset and executing plans in various situations.”

The clarity from the team management regarding each player’s role was beneficial, according to Kushagra. “As a batting unit, capitalizing on the PowerPlay and maximizing runs is our focus. If an early wicket falls, we ensure stability and aim for big hits in the suitable overs,” he explained.

When the openers establish a foundation of 60-70 runs, it provides a safety net for the remaining batters. “Over the years, we’ve ensured that if one player has an off day, another steps in, and this approach has been advantageous,” Kushagra added.

Kushagra has had a remarkable season, including a double century against Baroda in a Ranji Trophy match and amassing 316 runs with three fifties in seven SMAT matches at a 156.43 strike rate.

“In my early days, I overthought game strategies and shot selections, which led to unnecessary pressure. Now, I play according to the situation, which helps assess the conditions effectively without sticking to a rigid plan. Experience has been key to this approach,” the 21-year-old noted.

Recognized for his talent, Delhi Capitals signed Kushagra for Rs 7.20 crore in the 2024 IPL edition. Despite an unexpected turn of events, he later joined Gujarat Titans, where he has been retained.

Kushagra credits his time with Gujarat Titans for his growth as a ‘matured cricketer’. “The Titans’ environment was impressive. Even bowlers had ample batting opportunities, allowing me extensive net practice with quality bowlers and pitches. Conversations with Vikram Solanki and Ashish Nehra have guided my approach,” he shared.

His training regimen at Titans was rigorous, hitting between 500 and 700 balls daily. “Sometimes, both the quality and quantity of practice sessions are important. At home, I maintained this routine, knowing that to effectively face 50 balls in a match, one must practice with 500 in the nets,” he mentioned.

His inspiration comes from his father, also his coach. “He still maintains a strict routine, essential for any cricketer,” Kushagra said. Following in his father’s footsteps, Kushagra values discipline and plans to continue adhering to it.

Published on December 13, 2025