One of Goa’s finest all-time cricketers and most decorated IPL stalwart from the state, Shadab Jakati is currently on a NCA assignment as spin bowling coach for Northeast senior men’s camp in Kalyani, West Bengal.
The former Goa Ranji Trophy all-rounder and Chennai Super Kings star hailed the efforts being put in by the Northeast players at the camp in pursuit of excellence in the art of spin bowling.
“The spinners are eager to learn. And at this stage of their careers, they are also being guided along the tactical lines, along side the inputs on the technical aspects. They are putting in commendable efforts day in and day out,” Jakati told www.thegoancricketer.com.
Jakati, 42, has turned to coaching after a very impressive playing career of two decades where he won IPL twice with CSK (2010 & 2011) and emerged as the leading all-rounder for Goa with 275 wickets and 2734 runs in 92 first-class matches.
After recent stints with Uttar Pradesh U-25s and an overseas coaching opportunity, the BCCI Level 2 coach is relishing the NCA duty.
“It’s a great opportunity and challenge to be working with Northeast players. The challenge is to keep motivating them and encouraging them. Maintaining a positive atmosphere for players, is also very important,” added Jakati, one of the best left-arm spinners on display in the early editions of the IPL, which has been a game-changer for youngsters from all over India and some of the campers in Kalyani have also been at the IPL trials.
Jakati bowled some epic spells in the IPL, displaying great courage and control, and is a role model to impart knowledge to the trainees of the key ingredients of a champion mindset.
“More than physical effort and stamina, spinners require a big heart and strong mind . Developing the right skills and practicing the craft with a big heart, is what will provide success,” summed up Jakati.
