Oman Keeper Vinayak Shukla Praises Indian Legend Ahead Of IND vs OMA 2025

Oman wicket-keeper-batter Vinayak Shukla described former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as his mentor and a source of inspiration. He praised Dhoni’s unmatched ability to finish matches during his prime and expressed hope to meet him one day. Shukla moved from India to play in Oman in November 2021 after limited opportunities in Uttar Pradesh’s domestic cricket.

He shared his thoughts with The Times of India:

“As a wicketkeeper-batsman [batter], my inspiration has always been Mahendra Singh Dhoni – the way he finishes games and leads the team is unmatched. He is my guru. I never met him but want to meet him”.

“It was a very difficult decision. I left Indian cricket in November 2021 and moved to Oman to pursue my dreams. I work as a Data Operator at National Metal Cans. Back in Kanpur, I started playing at local clubs like the PAC Cricket Ground, and then moved around different cities.”

“But the problem was, I just wasn’t getting the opportunity to represent the state. I spoke to some seniors, and then went to one of my coaches, Prakash Palande sir. He gave me an opportunity to go to Muscat. He told me I’d have to stay there for around two years, and if I performed well, I could get a chance to represent the country after about three years.”

Vinayak Shukla Aims To Meet Kuldeep Yadav In IND vs OMA 2025 Match

When Vinayak Shukla faces India in the Asia Cup 2025 match on Friday, September 19, he will encounter a familiar opponent in Kuldeep Yadav. Shukla revealed that he had played club cricket against the 30-year-old in Kanpur and fondly remembers those moments. He said:

“I’ve played with Kuldeep Yadav back in India, so I hope we’ll meet soon. It’s a great opportunity for me and my team to play against sides like Pakistan and India. We grew up watching these players on TV all the time. I’m pretty nervous, but excited as well. I remember playing matches with Kuldeep bhai in Kanpur.”

“He was with Rovers Club and I played for PSE. We had many friendly games together. Once he bowled to me and I hit him for four, and he said, ‘Oh, pretty good shot!’ There are some fond memories, and I’ll always cherish those”.