Maharaja Trophy 2024: Learning From Nehra, Abhinav Aims to Bring GT Kind of Atmosphere to Shivamogga Lions

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Abhinav Manohar has praised Ashish Nehra and wants to carry the lessons he learned at Gujarat Titans when he steps onto the pitch for the Shivamogga Lions in the third edition of the Shriram Capital Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, which is scheduled to start on August 15.

The star Karnataka batter has stressed on the importance of a great team atmosphere, crediting the Titans coach and former Indian fast bowler, Nehra for nourishing the team environment. He believes it was this environment that helped players do well.

"One thing I learned is that atmosphere is crucial. No team can match the atmosphere at the Gujarat Titans, and a lot of the credit goes to Ashish Nehra. His energy is infectious, almost like a child's," Manohar said.

"Imagine managing 25 players during a six-hour training session, including international stars and young players. That environment helped players be themselves and do well, and I'm hoping to bring the same atmosphere here when I play for the Shivamogga Lions in the Maharaja Trophy."

At the Maharaja Trophy Season 3 which is set to be staged at the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium, Manohar will shoulder the dual responsibility of being both a senior player with IPL experience and the tag of highest-paid player in the tournament for a second consecutive year.

Speaking about the pressure that comes with being the highest paid player in the tournament, Manohar said, "It does feel good in a tournament like this, but I don't usually dwell on how much money I've been sold for. Whether it's five lakhs or 15 lakhs, my goal remains the same-to win matches for the team and contribute effectively."

Last edition, the Shivamogga Lions were restricted to the semi-finals. To excel this year, the 29-year-old believes creating the right dressing room environment is the key to unlocking the team's potential.

"We have more squad depth this year, with options for every role. We also have a lot of young players who have excelled on the circuit. Our challenge is to create an environment where these youngsters can thrive," he noted.

Reflecting on his preparations for the upcoming season in the premier T20 tournament organized by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), Manohar emphasised on making a few adjustments to his batting.

"I haven't had as much game time as I would have liked, so I'm really looking forward to this tournament. I've been training hard and have made a few adjustments to my batting. I'm confident that I will do well this season," he added.

Manohar also highlighted the importance of the Maharaja Trophy as a breeding ground for emerging talent: "My journey started here, leading to an opportunity with Karnataka in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and eventually with the Gujarat Titans.

"For young players in Karnataka, this has become a crucial platform. We know IPL scouts are watching, and it can also be a stepping-stone into Karnataka's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy team."

Shivamogga Lions will begin their Maharaja Trophy 2024 campaign on August 15 against last season's runners-up Mysore Warriors at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.