Never thought of scoring 4,000 runs, says Gokul Sharma

GUWAHATI: He is 37 but no sign of tiredness. Gokul Sharma, the middle order batter of Assam, recently entered into the 4000-run club in First Class cricket. In an interaction with The Sentinel Gokul, who made debut in First Class cricket in 2004 against Tamil Nadu, said that sacrifice in life was essential to stay long in the circuit. Here is the excerpt.

The Sentinel (TS): First player from Assam to complete 4,000 First Class runs. Your reaction.

Gokul: It's a nice feeling. When I started my career these milestones were not in my mind. I just focused on doing well whenever I got the chance to bat. Rest of the things happened automatically.

(TS): Any one you would like to give credit to?

Gokul: During my career I have come in touch with several coaches and cricketers who helped me a lot to shape my career. So I feel credit should go to all of them. However I want to take the name of coach Gautam Hazarika who helped me a lot during the early part of my career. Mumbaikar Amal Muzumdar also gave me some good tips during his short stint with the Assam team.

(TS): Perhaps you need to sacrifice a lot to touch this milestone...

Gokul: Yes. A player needs to sacrifice a lot if he wants to stay long in the circuit and earn success in his career. It happened in my life also. I have to stay away from my family, avoided some of my favourite dishes. My family also made a lot of sacrifices for me. Initially, my parents were not sure about my future when I started to play cricket but later they understood and gave me full support which I feel was necessary to keep focus on the game.

(TS): Your best innings and partnership in first class cricket…

Gokul: Both were involved in the same game against Bengal which was held in Kolkata in 2010-11. I scored a century in that game and also made a good partnership of 176 runs with Tarjider Singh who scored 98 in the game. The knock and partnership, both were very memorable for me.

(TS): Share your future plan.

Gokul: Right now I am thinking of playing well and finishing the season contributing a good score with the bat. Once the season is over I will sit and plan for the next season. If everything goes well I may like to continue.