In Season 1, Akhil Herwadkar scored just 53 runs in 5 matches. This season, however, he turned it around to become the league's top run-scorer after three matches, helped by two fifties. His own personal turnaround has coincided with the team's from the last campaign. The ARCS Andheri batsman reflects on the positive changes.

Q. You have been a Test specialist with the Ranji Trophy. How is like playing the shortest format of the game and getting back-to-back man of the match awards? What have you done differently?

Akhil Herwadkar: I think I always believed in myself and felt that I could play all three formats of the game. It wasn’t just about performing well in the Ranji Trophy or the One Dayers, I felt it could be done in all three formats. I’ve worked on my batting skills specifically for T20 and that has worked out very well. I feel everybody tries to play every shot in the same over when it comes to T20. I don’t do that, I just stick to my natural game.

Q. Last season ARCS Andheri finished bottom and this year they already got two wins. What has changed for the franchise?

Akhil Herwadkar: I feel our thinking was more positive this year and that has made a difference. We believed in each and every player in the team and feel anyone could win us a game at any time. I feel that mindset has helped change the season for ARCS Andehri.

Q. You played slowly after getting to your fifty against Shivaji Park Lions. Was that part of the team’s plan or was that because of the wicket and the outfield?

Akhil Herwadkar: That was part of the plan because the wicket was doing a bit. I think I just read the situation and played according to that because I knew our lower-order batsman have the ability to score the big runs at the death.