Priyank Panchal is a shining star of the cricket world from the state of Gujarat and has been the first cricketer from the state who scored 300 runs in a single inning against Punjab. With many accolades and trophies shining bright at his home, it’s the zeal to play and learn more that drives this young player who is also an avid book reader. He believes that reading gives him an edge over others in terms of driving his mind in the right direction, helps him bring in more focus and attention to achieve his ultimate goal of playing in test matches at the international level. In a quick chat with TMM, the passionate cricketer talks about his journey so far and his inspiration.
You started playing cricket at an early age. How and when did this passion for cricket happen?
Yes, for me, my childhood had been all about cricket and I am glad that it happened and the credit goes to my dad, who wanted me to play cricket. I was 10, when he took me to a cricket summer camp 
in Ahmedabad, and ever since then, there had been no looking back. In a couple of years, I started playing at the district level and as they say, the rest is history.
Who is your inspiration and whom do you idolize from the world of international cricket and why?
Ever since I started watching cricket, I have been inspired by Rahul Dravid (sir). He has some sort of energy and passion for cricket that I can relate with and then when I saw him at the National Cricket Academy camp in Bengaluru, during my training session, I could feel that fire and passion with which he performs and even guides young minds. He works day in and out and that further inspired me to push the envelope to do more to make it to international cricket. In simple words, there is no substitute for hardwork and dedication.
Your Instagram profile says you are an avid reader and a pensador as well. What are you reading and thinking these days?
I have been an avid reader since childhood, because it takes me to another world of imagination and thought process. It also helps develop an intellect level beyond the ground, which attracts me way more than any other leisure activity like watching movies or series. Also, reading helps me develop the pensador side of me, and it is something that makes me happy inside out.
As a youth of Gujarat, what do you think needs to be done to promote cricket more in the state and how would you like to be a part of the process?
I feel proud that I have been able to bring some glory to my state, but again, that greed to do more is what always pushes me and I have been pushing myself to make the best of it. I feel consistency and discipline are two things that can help bring success home and I feel that is what today’s youth needs 
to understand and work on it. From ground to the gym, everywhere you need to be disciplined and follow a schedule to bring excellence. As far as my role is concerned, I am always there to help those who are passionate enough to follow their dreams. It’s an amazing process and I love it!
What are your future plans in the world of cricket and what’s your strategy to implement those plans?
I believe in long term goals and ever since I have been playing cricket, my aim has been to play test cricket for the Indian cricket team and I am sure this plan will turn out true very soon. In the gentleman’s game, consistency is the key, so as far as strategy is concerned, I am being consistent with my practice sessions and I also watch a lot of matches, as they help me understand the nuances of other players and then prepare my strategy on the ground.
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