Pradosh relieved to convert his start into a big score

Pradosh Ranjan Paul has started the 2026-27 domestic season strongly, following up his 58 in the first game versus Rajasthan with a crucial 136 against Uttarakhand, helping Tamil Nadu secure an innings and 66-run win on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old was relieved after failing to convert his last few First Class starts, stretching back to the previous season.

“Definitely, it was very important. In my last three First Class games coming into the match, I was getting out in the 80s; at the start of the season, I got out for [58]. So, that was obviously on my mind: if I get set this game, I’ll try to make it [big],” Pradosh said on Monday.

“It wasn’t the bowlers who were getting me out. It was that one rash shot which got me out. So, I was very aware when I was batting that I wasn’t going to gift my wicket and was going to play on the merit of the ball.”

For someone known for flashy drives and an aggressive brand of cricket, Pradosh was circumspect against the spinners, especially on the off-side and preferred to play with the turn.

“I think it all sums up to mental discipline. Especially when your team needs you to do a certain role, you need to put the team ahead. I did the same because I knew I should value my wicket. I was the one who got set yesterday. So, subconsciously, I was thinking that I should bat as long as possible,” Pradosh explained.