Priyansh Arya played one of the best innings by an uncapped batter in the history of the Indian Premier League on Tuesday, April 8. Priyansh scored a 39-ball hundred, the 4th fastest century in the tournament's history, guiding his team to a victory over Chennai Super Kings.
India Today spoke with Priyansh Arya's coach, uncovering intriguing insights into the cricketer’s preparation for IPL 2025. Under the guidance of Sanjay Bhardwaj, formerly Gautam Gambhir's mentor, Priyansh reported to a specialized training facility one month prior to the tournament. This center is situated 20 kilometers outside Bhopal within the Ratapani Forest area of Madhya Pradesh.
Bhardwaj said he runs a gurukul-style camp from his home outside of Bhopal, where players like Nitish Rana, Unmukt Chand, Kulwant Khejrolia, and now Priyansh Arya have benefited from his coaching.
"He honed his skills in Bhopal before participating in both the DPL and IPL. I manage a residential academy located within the Ratapani forest, about 20 kilometers away from the city. This place has hosted training sessions for players such as Nitish Rana, Unmukt Chand, and Priyansh. You could say it operates much like a traditional Indian guru-disciple school," explained Bhardwaj during an exclusive talk with India Today.
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He mentioned that locating the training center is almost impossible since it lacks even a sign to direct visitors.
"He didn't use any signs or markers; he trained far from the pollution and heat of Delhi," Bhardwaj explained.
12 HOUR TRAINING DAY
Regarding Priyansh's daily schedule at the training camp, his trainer, who previously worked with Gautam Gambhir, disclosed that the days were extensive—lasting 12 hours. Priyansh had restricted access to his mobile device; he could only use it for an hour each day. The coach added that their diet consisted of basic meals prepared using a conventional clay oven (chulha).
"His initial training session began at 6:30 am and continued non-stop till 6 pm. No breaks were provided during this time. He could only use his mobile phone for up to an hour each day. Meals were prepared using a chulha stove. This was what constituted his daily routine," he explained.
Bhardwaj mentioned that Priyansh reached out to him early next morning following his century and inquired if he had performed well.
The next day, after he scored a century, he called me and asked if he had done well. I responded by telling him to entrust everything to God. With His mercy, one can succeed in life," Bhardwaj said in conclusion.
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