Lucknow Super Giants’ star Nicholas Pooran recently opened up about the strong bond he shares with Rishabh Pant, built on their shared experiences of overcoming career-threatening injuries. Both Pooran and Pant survived serious car accidents early in their careers, creating a unique understanding between them.
Pooran, at just 19, endured a devastating accident in St Mary’s, Trinidad, in January 2015, which left him wheelchair-bound after undergoing multiple surgeries on his knees and ankle.
Pant too, in December 2022, was involved in a horrific crash while driving from Delhi to Roorkee. “Even before the incident we (him and Pant) had a good relationship. We always connect. We always chat, get together whenever we can.
If he’s in the Caribbean or if I’m here,” Pooran shared in an interview with PTI. Reflecting on their journeys, he added, “Accident is just something which was really unfortunate in our respective journeys but the bright side is we’re here playing cricket today. And that is a wonderful feeling. But yeah, we share our experiences. We try to help each other as much as we can.”
Transition to a New Batting Role
This IPL season has seen Pooran excelling in a slightly different role. Having scored 499 runs in 2024, he has continued his fine form, but now batting at No. 3 instead of his earlier position at No. 5 or No. 6.
When asked if this shift had altered his approach, Pooran emphasized, “My mindset is the same. Try to win games whenever I get an opportunity. Obviously, it is a different role batting at number 5 or 6.” He further explained, “Batting at No. 3, I get an opportunity to face more balls. That’s something I wanted to capitalise on especially going into the Powerplay. So it’s all about taking the opportunity and doing what the team requires.”
His aggressive batting style has paid off handsomely, making him the only player among the top-10 run-scorers with a strike rate exceeding 200.
Mastering Spin and Thriving in Indian Conditions
Pooran’s success is not just limited to his power-hitting. He stands out as one of the few overseas players who handle spin with remarkable ease.
Reflecting on his comfort in Indian conditions, Pooran said, “I’ve played in India for a while now. The tracks are a bit similar like what we get back home, where the pitches do not have a lot of bounce. But these are actually good wickets to bat on so that’s something for me I felt like would be in my favour.”
Expressing his love for the vibrant cricketing atmosphere in India, he added, “I like playing here in India as well. So there’s extra motivation especially in this environment. The fans, they want you to do well and performing here is any cricketer’s dream.”
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