Shivam Mavi talks about Rahul Dravid’s advise against chasing money

U19 fast bowler Shivam Mavi grabbed all possible limelight during the recent U19 World Cup which India won in New Zealand under Prithvi Shaw’s captaincy. He clocked at 146 kmph and was amazing with his ability to swing the ball.

Much like for any cricketer in India U19, for Mavi too, head coach Rahul Dravid’s inputs were of immense help. In a recent interview, Mavi revealed Dravid’s advice to the youngsters regarding money and game. He said that they have always been advised to give their all to cricket, which will eventually bring them decent money too.

“Rahul Sir told us that ‘money will keep flowing in but just remember what is it that has helped you earn so much money and focus on that. It’s cricket for you. If you give time to cricket then it will give you back, whatever you want.’ His words still ring in my ears,” Mavi told PTI in an interview.

KKR bought Mavi for 3 crore

Following his heroics in the World Cup, Mavi was snapped up by two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League auctions earlier this year, at a price of INR 3 crore. For almost every cricket, IPL is a platform to impress the national selectors. For Mavi, however, it is being seen as a platform to impress the domestic selectors because the UP bowler is yet to make his first-class, list A debut.

“Post-IPL, the main focus will be on domestic cricket. I am yet to make my debut in domestic cricket (first-class, List A or T20). IPL is an opportunity to grab limelight if you do well. It becomes easier from here on, if you do well here,” Mavi told PTI.

IPL 11 begins on April 7 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Defending champions Mumbai Indians will take on the returning Chennai Super Kings in the tournament opener, while KKR will play Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 8 at their home turf Eden Gardens.