Madan Lal urges Delhi’s players to ‘dream big’

As the man entrusted to put Delhi cricket back on rails, the former India all-rounder has drawn up elaborate plans for the domestic season.

Madan Lal is chairman of the five-member Cricket Advisory Committee.

Madan Lal wants the current generation of Delhi cricketers to play for pride. As the man entrusted to put Delhi cricket back on rails, the former India all-rounder has drawn up elaborate plans for the season. As chairman of the five-member Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), Madan wants the team to aim for nothing short than the Ranji Trophy title this season.

“When we played for Delhi, under the captaincy of Bishan (Singh Bedi), the aim was to secure a spot in the India team. You have to dream big. We just wanted to play for India and in the process gave winning performances for Delhi. You have to aim for the best. Winning the Ranji Trophy gives you a pride of place and also a chance to 11 players to play the Irani Cup,” said Madan in a chat with Sportstar .

Speaking about the way forward, Madan noted, “I want to assure the players that they need not feel insecure at all. A player selects or drops himself. How can selectors not pick you if you do well? Madan Lal is not going to win the match for you. He can help you in guiding you to win. The effort has to come from the players.”

The focus, opined Madan, would be on having positivity in the dressing room. “You have to have a healthy and vibrant dressing room. Believe me, results would follow. Meaningful practice sessions and complete understanding [of] your specific role can make the task of the team management easy. We (CAC) are always there to stand by you,” he said in a reassurance to the players that they matter the most.

‘Fitness paramount’

“I want to make the players comfortable. They will be given the best of facilities. In return they have to put in their best foot forward. Fitness is going to be paramount. No compromise will be made on issues related to fitness and discipline. Players on the fringe would not be discarded,” Madan added.

With an eye on grooming the talent, Madan observed, “I respect the players and they must also have faith in the team management. I will not interfere but I am available if they wish to seek my help. The team management will have a free hand. All I want them to remember is that it is about Delhi cricket and nothing else.”

The CAC has planned a workshop for the support staff before the preparatory camps. “Good performances in the age group will not go unrewarded. I want the Under-19 boys to be ready for Ranji Trophy. Can't afford to miss outstanding performances. We want Delhi cricket to thrive.”