Vishnu Vinod: Excitement and Anticipation Ahead of IPL 2025
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) gears up for its 18th season, players are not just preparing their skills on the field but also brimming with anticipation and excitement. One such player is Vishnu Vinod, the 31-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Kerala, who recently signed with the Punjab Kings (PBKS) after a fruitful but challenging time with other franchises.
A New Chapter with Punjab Kings
Vishnu Vinod’s journey in the IPL has included stints with prominent franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mumbai Indians. However, his transfer to PBKS comes with a sense of nostalgia and a fresh start. The wicketkeeper, whose previous season with Mumbai ended prematurely due to injury, is now looking forward to showcasing his talents under the guidance of head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer, both of whom he has worked with before.
In a recent interview, Vishnu shared his enthusiasm about being part of the PBKS camp, expressing how it feels like "home away from home." The bonding and experience of being under Ponting’s mentorship again makes this opportunity special for him. He was acquired for Rs 95 lakh during the IPL 2025 mega auction, a substantial investment by the franchise that reflects their faith in his abilities.
Training and Preparation
As the players train, Vishnu reported that the focus has been on building their skills, particularly in batting and wicketkeeping—a duality essential for his role. His commitment to improving his game is evident as he’s engaged in intensive training sessions while also reflecting on his past performances.
Vishnu’s journey in the previous domestic season was tumultuous; his performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) dipped compared to the previous year. Acknowledging this, he is determined to make a comeback and contribute significantly to PBKS this season.
Insights from the Player
Vishnu offered insights during the interview about watching his auction and the surprise of being chosen by Punjab, considering he hadn’t trialed with them. With the excitement of reuniting with Ponting and Iyer, he mentioned, "I am very excited to be playing under Ponting," underscoring his respect for the coach.
When prompted about his experience playing alongside cricket icons like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, he expressed gratitude for the learning opportunities and the unique camaraderie they shared both on and off the field. Vishnu remarked, "On the field, they are different, and off the field, they are very chill," indicating the balance of professionalism and relaxation in the dressing room.
Outlook for IPL 2025
As IPL 2025 approaches, Vishnu Vinod’s eagerness to step back onto the field is palpable. Having sustained an injury that interrupted his previous season, he is determined to give his all if given the chance. “If I get a chance, I will put my 100% for the team,” he asserted, reflecting his dedication and passion for the sport.
Conclusion
Vishnu Vinod represents the spirit of resilience and adaptability in cricket, traits that are invaluable in a competitive league like the IPL. With fresh beginnings at Punjab Kings and the mentorship of seasoned professionals, fans can anticipate an exciting season ahead. As the matches unfold, Vishnu will look to reconnect with his form and contribute to the glory of PBKS in the 2025 edition of the IPL. His journey is a testament to the fact that in sports, every setback is a setup for a comeback, and for Vishnu, the stage is set for greatness.
