Barbados, July 2: Playing just the second Test match of his career, Abhinav Mukund scored an impressive 48 runs off 81 balls in the second innings of the closely contested game at the Kensington Oval. His three earlier outings in the middle did not yield many runs as he was out early; this innings marked a true beginning for the youngster’s international career. In a post-match interview with veteran batsman Sunil Gavaskar, he spoke about his baptism in Test cricket and the changes he made to his game to be able to play longer innings.

Excerpts from the conversation:

On Test cricket

Honestly, it is a bit tough considering the fact that I have only played domestic cricket and come straight here. [The] wickets are bouncing a bit, I am really enjoying it [but] at the same time, it’s tough.

On the change in his technique in the second innings of the second Test

I thought about it and I saw the players leaving the ball on length (sic) which we are not used to [doing] back in India. I made a conscious effort to leave the balls that were away and bouncing. I guess that technique happened on its own I didn’t make any conscious effort.

On facing the first ball of the innings

He [Murali Vijay] asked me if [I] wanted to take strike in the first game. In Ranji Trophy games I always take strike so I guess we just wanted to go with the flow.

On the advantage of taking first strike as it lets you hit the ball before the bowler takes charge

That’s true, actually.

On what he was looking to do in the next Test match

Definitely, I want to play for some more time in the middle and enjoy my stint in the middle as much as possible and take in all the experience.

On learning from senior players like Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman

They have been my idols since I was very young. They have played cricket [for years that almost add up to] […] my age. I am enjoying myself and they are helping me a lot. A pat on the back from players like them always helps.