To win the series — this has always been a one-point agenda for every member of the Indian team on the recent tour to Australia.
“There was lot of positivity in the dressing room at every meeting. Everyone was clear about this. Honestly, I feel blessed to be part of that atmosphere for it is always said by seniors that playing Australia in Australia is the biggest challenge,” 25-year-old Vihari said in an exclusive chat with The Hindu on Wednesday.
“To be a member of the team which recorded a historic series win is in itself a great feeling. It was a different kind of experience for me in Australia.
“When I made my Test debut in England, the series was already over. Here, I had a chance to contribute and I’m glad I could play my bit with bat and ball when there was no spinner in the team,” he said.
“There was that feel-good factor when the captain, coach and the support staff recognise your abilities. That was a huge plus for me,” Vihari said.
“It is a great challenge to bat anywhere, not just in the opener’s slot. And, at the international level, you have to be ready for anything that comes your way. Honestly, I enjoyed that stint,” he said.
“What gave me great satisfaction was my contributions in the Test series either with the bat or the ball were significant in the context of the game,” Vihari explained.
The Andhra Ranji captain brushed the issue of sledging aside, calling it a part of the game and nothing serious.
“These are the kinds of things, when they don’t cross the line, that enhance the beauty of Test cricket,” he said.
On the road ahead, Vihari said: “I want to keep improving and score heavily at every opportunity that comes my way.
“I had not set any personal goals before the tour for I, like almost every member of this Indian team, was chasing the dream of winning the series,” he said.
“And, it was a tremendous atmosphere when we played the Melbourne Test in front of 80,000 crowd. That was truly unforgettable,” signs off Vihari who will now be focussing on the IPL playing for Delhi team.
