Priyansh Arya Coach Sanjay Bhardwaj Interview:
Priyansh Arya, the cricketer who became a sensation when he landed 6 sixes off 6 balls in the Delhi Premier League (DPL), was first noticed then. On April 8, against the Chennai Super Kings, Priyansh batted with such prowess that he proved he is built for the long game.
His astounding 39-ball century in the IPL (Indian Premier League), as an uncapped player, set the record for one of the fastest centuries. This spectacular feat joined the ranks as the fourth-fastest century in IPL history, as per collective records. In this game, Priyansh scored a total of 103 runs off 42 balls, with 7 fours and 9 sixes, maintaining an impressive strike rate of 245.33.
This achievement and the incredible six sixes in an over aren’t mere strokes of luck. There’s a story many are unaware of — a testament to relentless hard work, humility, and faith in the divine.
Prior to his remarkable innings in both DPL and IPL, Priyansh Arya traveled from Delhi to Bhopal. There, 20 kilometers away, he honed his skills with cricket coach Sanjay Bhardwaj at a cricket academy situated within the Ratapani Tiger Reserve Area. Known for his cut and pull shots, Priyansh worked assiduously on these techniques, evident in his game against Chennai, where he hit 9 sixes and 7 boundaries.
The Dronacharya Award-winning coach, Sanjay Bhardwaj, has mentored numerous cricketers for India, including Gautam Gambhir, Joginder Singh, Unmukt Chand, Amit Mishra, and Nitish Rana. Bhardwaj explains, “I started this cricket academy, located around 20 kilometers from Bhopal, amidst the jungle of Ratapani Tiger Reserve. It has become a training hub for players like Unmukt Chand, Nitish Rana, and Priyansh Arya. People are generally unaware of this initiative.”
Source: aajtak
Sanjay Bhardwaj elaborated that both red and black soil pitches are crafted here to ensure players are well-prepared for varied pitch conditions. During their stay, players have limited access to phones. Priyansh, staying for about a month pre-IPL, dutifully adhered to this, utilizing his phone for merely an hour a day. The academy is equipped with indoor facilities and a gym, and its rustic environment fosters focus and camaraderie.
Speaking with
Aajtak.in
, Bhardwaj shared, “Today (April 9), at seven in the morning, Priyansh called, sounding delighted about his performance. In a prior match, although dismissed at zero against the Rajasthan Royals, Priyansh expressed gratitude, attributing his success to a higher power. I’ve instilled in him the belief that divine faith, coupled with diligence, ensures nothing can impede progress. Priyansh, at 24, is quite devout and steadfast in his beliefs.”
A Promise to His Coach and Six Sixes in One Over...
On August 31, 2024, playing for South Delhi Superstars in the Delhi Premier League (DPL), Priyansh Arya rocketed six consecutive sixes off one over against North Delhi Strikers, constructing a formidable total of 308/5 for his team. He achieved a century in 40 balls, concluding with 120 runs off 50 balls.
This innings was the realization of a promise to his coach, Sanjay Bhardwaj. Bhardwaj had conveyed, “If you (Priyansh) score a century, I’ll travel from Bhopal to Delhi to see you.” Priyansh kept his word, and Bhardwaj reached Delhi to meet him.
Starting Coaching at the Age of 10
Currently, Sanjay Bhardwaj offers cricket coaching at Keshavpuram Government School in Delhi. Reflecting on the past, he recalled, “Priyansh came to us when he was around 10 years old. Since then, he has honed his cricketing skills here. Originally from Bhuna village in Haryana’s Fatehabad, Priyansh’s parents are both school teachers in Delhi. His father, Pawan Arya, is proud, having shared that Priyansh did well, and they hope his success continues.”
Consistently Engaging with Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir, former Indian team head coach and disciple of Sanjay Bhardwaj, routinely mentors academy players. Whenever Priyansh requires guidance, Gambhir is ready to assist.
Five Players Coached by Sanjay Bhardwaj in IPL
In IPL, Sanjay Bhardwaj has coached five players: Priyansh Arya (Punjab Kings), Nitish Rana (Rajasthan Royals), Kumar Kartikeya (Rajasthan Royals), Aryan Juyal (Lucknow Super Giants), and Kulwant Khejroliya (Gujarat Titans).
