Travis Head raised his career graph a few notches up to 2023 but the Australian batter understands that staying at that level is a challenging task, and the first stop for him on that journey is the upcoming T20 World Cup. Head’s hundreds in two of the biggest cricketing occasions last year – the WTC final and the 50-over World Cup summit clash – were Australia’s guiding force against India. But the 30-year-old now wants to be at his best-prepared self for the World Cup through the Indian Premier League experience.
“I’ve come a long way as a player. I guess owning a little bit of the style I want to play and the way I have played overseas too, I’ve been able to tick a few boxes. Now, the pressure is to continue to play the way I am playing,” Head told PTI in an interview.
“I think in all formats, I need to make sure that I go back to what simplifies everything, which is my technique and my blueprint,” he added. Head demonstrated his adaptability during his stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the ongoing IPL. Opening the innings, he amassed 133 runs from five matches at a strike rate of 177, providing SRH with early momentum and showcasing his readiness for a demanding T20 role with his national team.
“With the World Cup coming around the corner and, hopefully, being involved in that squad and batting at the top of the orderâ€æit gives me good preparation here in the IPL to try and get some runs and have a little bit of form going into the World Cup,” noted Head.
However, participating in a complete IPL season may risk burnout before the ICC’s premier event in June.
Head was aware of it. “I think it is important for me to make sure that I’m mentally fresh throughout the IPL and continuing to work on my game, and making sure that I am ready for the World Cup when that time comes. But I am feeling like I am prepared and ready at the moment,” he added.
Head’s confidence was clear when he scored 62 off 24 balls in his first IPL match in seven years. The South Australian stated that his greater game understanding helped him make an immediate effect.
“It was nice to get some runs in the first game, and honestly, I didn’t really have too many expectations. It’s been a long time between IPLs for me, seven years, but I’ve learned a lot over that time and am a lot more mature now.
“I feel like I understand my game a lot more. So, a lot of different feelings coming back and not trying to be too nervous or worried about results. I am just making sure that the things that I’ve done over the last few years are going to work and I best prepare myself to play well for the franchise,” he said.
However, Head noted that the presence of Pat Cummins (captain) and Daniel Vettori (head coach) in the SRH dressing room helped him adjust to the new atmosphere.
“Definitely having Pat and Dan, who I’ve worked closely with for Australia in the last few years, has helped me. It’s a very relaxed environment.
“Soon as I got my contract, I knew that I had the backing from those guys and they’ve confidence in my game,” he said.
A chat with Head will not be completed with his exploits against India last year with him terming the World Cup final at Ahmedabad the biggest moment in his career.
The left-hander made 120-ball 137, propelling the Aussies to a six-wicket victory and their sixth ODI World title.
