Have been working with Somasundar on my mental conditioning: Badrinath

CHENNAI: Even as the IPL auctions were underway in Bengaluru, S Badrinath was on the field, marshalling his troops as Vidarbha faced Tamil Nadu on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy quarterfinals in Jaipur on Monday.
With news pouring in of Badri being picked by Royal Challengers Bangalore for Rs 30 lakh, the former Tamil Nadu player seemed happy to be back in the mix at the cash-awash league.
"I am excited to be back after a break last year. I am glad to be playing for a side like RCB which has been led brilliantly by Virat Kohli," said Badri while talking to TOI on Monday evening.
Life definitely has come a full circle for the 34-year-old who went unsold in the previous auction exactly a year ago, and Badri didn't mince words while voicing his disappointment.
"IPL has made a huge impact on my career, and not being part of it last year was heartbreaking. It felt as if my life had hit a roadblock," noted Badri, who has featured in 95 IPL games for Chennai Super Kings.
Subsequently, the 34-year-old underwent a mental conditioning program in order to keep going. Badri has been working with former India opener Sujith Somasundar for the last 8-10 months. "We speak regularly over phone or converse online, sometimes even in between matches," added Badri.
The Vidarbha skipper feels now has is more process-driven. "Playing the game for the right reason, enjoying the training — these are the things that I have been working on in the last few months. It has also brought about a sea change in my approach towards the game," said Badri.
Staying immersed in the processes, goals, and remaining detached from the results has done wonders to his game. "Results are not in your control, but processes definitely are," noted Badri.
Not surprisingly, Badri has been inculcating his learning into his team as well. "We have a close-knit side, and I share whatever I know," he said.
Speaking about his likely role at the RCB, Badri said, "When we assemble ahead of the season, there will be more clarity on it. The good thing is that I have the experience of batting in different slots and playing diverse roles in the previous seasons."