Zeeshan eyeing another dominant season
Lucknow: After the mini-auction, players are gearing up for the third edition of the UPT20 League 2025, which is likely to begin in August.
Zeeshan Ansari
, the highest wicket-taker of the previous edition — a performance that opened doors to the
Indian Premier League
for him — is all set to shine once again.
Zeeshan, who was picked by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for Rs 40 lakh, took 6 wickets in 10 matches in this year's IPL season.
Responding to a question about whether he feels any pressure to perform in this season of the UPT20 League, Zeeshan said, "I don't play under pressure or for records. If I keep doing what I've been doing, I believe things will turn out well. My approach is going to be the same, whether it's the IPL or the UPT20 League."
Speaking about the UPT20 League, the Lucknow-based leg-spinner said, "In my opinion, it's a huge platform for every player. If you perform well, you will be noticed. Around 10–12 players from Uttar Pradesh have managed to make it to the IPL."
Zeeshan further emphasised the importance of fitness in today's competitive cricket. "The main thing is to stay fit throughout the year. I've worked with IPL trainers and have now hired a personal trainer for myself."
When asked to compare the IPL with the UPT20 League, Ansari said, "The difference is mainly about pressure. In the UP T20 League, there's less pressure and a smaller audience. But in the IPL, there's a huge crowd, and people expect you to perform. It's all about how well you handle the pressure."
"To be honest, I couldn't play to my full potential because it was my debut season. Initially, I wasn't sure if I'd even make it to the playing XI," he added.
On playing domestic cricket, Zeeshan said, "Domestic cricket is crucial. Performing in domestic cricket isn't easy. Even if you do well in the IPL and get noticed, taking wickets in the Ranji Trophy shows your true calibre."
When asked about his preparations for this season after being the highest wicket-taker in last year's UPT20 League, he said, "My goal is to bowl well and be at the top again," he signed off.
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