In a powerful response to his recent setbacks in the Indian Premier League, former Uttar Pradesh Ranji Trophy captain Aryan Juyal has stormed back into form with a magnificent century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. His brilliant knock of 150 runs from just 140 deliveries was instrumental in securing Uttar Pradesh's victory over Assam, marking a significant personal triumph.
From IPL Disappointment to Vijay Hazare Dominance
Juyal's innings comes after a double blow to his T20 aspirations. He was first dropped from the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad and then, more surprisingly, found his name missing from the final IPL auction shortlist altogether. Speaking to the Times of India, the wicketkeeper-batsman admitted the hurt he felt. "It was difficult for me and it did hurt," Juyal confessed. "I hadn't expected that I wouldn't be shortlisted for the auction. Among all the players, around 250-300, my name wasn't there. Many times you feel that you've done enough and deserve a place somewhere."
Climbing the Run-Scoring Charts
This stellar performance has catapulted Juyal to the upper echelons of the tournament's scoring list. He is now the second-highest run-scorer in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, having amassed 390 runs in just four matches at a staggering average of 130. His aggressive batting has featured 33 boundaries and 12 sixes. He now sits just 16 runs behind the current leader, Karnataka's Devdutt Padikkal, who has 406 runs.
This century against Assam was his second of the tournament, adding to a score of 134 against Chandigarh. Overall, it marked his sixth List A century, complementing 10 half-centuries, and bolstering his impressive List A average to 54.31.
The Grind Behind the Comeback
Juyal attributed his successful return to relentless hard work during the off-season. He detailed a rigorous daily routine focused on turning his disappointment into determination. "I spent four to five hours on the field or in net sessions, apart from fitness work," Juyal explained. "Since I have to do wicketkeeping as well, it feels like double the effort. In total, around six to seven hours of hard work every day, especially in the off-season, was very crucial."
Regarding his match-winning innings against Assam, Juyal revealed a tactical discussion with teammate Rinku Singh about the looming weather. They decided to play their natural game. "As everybody knows how Rinku bhai plays, I played at my own pace and, luckily, completed the 150-run milestone before the umpires called us off," he said, highlighting the partnership's intent before rain intervened.
This remarkable comeback story underscores the resilience of domestic cricketers who use platform like the Vijay Hazare Trophy to make compelling statements, proving their mettle and keeping their professional dreams alive.
