Romario Shepherd Talks Power Hitting and IPL Excitement Ahead of New Season
The anticipation for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is palpable, with Chennai Super Kings slated to host Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a much-awaited season opener on March 22. As the cricket world gears up for this marquee event, all-rounder Romario Shepherd from West Indies shares his excitement for the upcoming season and his transfer to one of the most celebrated franchises in the competition, Mumbai Indians.
In the heat of cricket’s shortest and most thrilling format, Shepherd is known for his formidable presence at the crease. Speaking about his batting philosophy, Romario emphasized, “It’s my strength versus your strength when I’m at the crease.” This mindset is indicative of the aggressive approach he brings to the game, particularly when it comes to six-hitting, which has become an integral part of modern T20 cricket.
Romario Shepherd, speaking to ESPNCricinfoIt’s tough – everyone expects us [finishers] to go and hit a six from ball one. Some days it just doesn’t happen. Balls that you normally hit for six, they just don’t go. It’s about you slowing down the moment, and in that moment, you will know you’re just trying too hard. In that moment, you look at your base and see if you’re holding your shape for long enough. All of that you have to calculate in five-ten balls because you don’t have the time like the opening batsmen do. You need to go out there and try to hit sixes from ball one.
Having played four IPL matches across two seasons, the Caribbean star has already made a mark, scoring 58 runs and taking three wickets. His all-round abilities have not gone unnoticed, leading to the Lucknow Super Giants trading him to the Mumbai Indians for the upcoming season. For Shepherd, this transfer is not just a shift between teams but an opportunity to showcase his prowess on a larger stage.
Romario Shepherd, speaking to ESPNCricinfoWhen I got the call that I will be with MI this IPL, I was very happy to play for one of the best franchises in the league and one of the well-known franchises in the world. That’s something that comes with some added pressure because you’re in the spotlight playing for a champion team. But I don’t want to pressure myself too much. I just want to relax and work my way into the team. If given an opportunity in the XI, I must be ready for any challenge thrown at me.
Shepherd also recounted some of his notable performances against top international players, including his memorable dismissals of cricketing heavyweights like Australia’s Glenn Maxwell and Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan. These moments of triumph are etched in his career and have offered glimpses of the impact he is capable of delivering in high-pressure situations.
With the IPL known for its star-studded line-ups and electric atmosphere, Shepherd is aware of the challenges and excitement that lie ahead. Joining the ranks of the Mumbai Indians is no small feat; the franchise’s rich history and passionate fanbase are enough to motivate any player to perform at their best. Shepherd is expected to play a crucial role for Mumbai Indians this season, contributing with both bat and ball, as he aims to leave a lasting impression on the league.
Cricket enthusiasts and bettors alike are awaiting the IPL 2024 with bated breath, ready to witness intense action and individual brilliance. As Shepherd gears up to don the blue jersey, his powerful hitting and effective bowling seem primed to add to the thrilling narrative that the IPL script every season. One thing is certain: when Shepherd walks out to bat, it promises to be a thrilling contest of power and strategy.