There’s a unique sting to being dismissed on 99. That single, elusive run often looms larger in a batter’s mind than all the brilliant strokes and runs accumulated. This frustrating sentiment was all too real for Sanat Sangwan on Saturday during Delhi’s Ranji Trophy match against Pondicherry.
As he chased his second First Class century, the 25-year-old opener was drawn into an ill-fated drive off medium-pacer Abin Mathew in the 73rd over, ending his valiant innings just one run shy of the coveted milestone. Disappointment was clearly etched across his face as he made his way back to the pavilion at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
“It’s never a good feeling when any batter gets out on 99,” Sangwan reflected after the day’s play. “But overall, it was an acceptable performance. It was a green pitch, and the ball was moving. I consciously took my time, focusing on holding one end and batting through the entire day.”
Aside from the single mistimed shot that led to his dismissal, Sangwan displayed remarkable patience and control in his batting. In an era where aggressive flair often dominates even in longer formats, this left-handed opener brings a distinctly traditional, old-school touch to his game.
For Sangwan, a talent honed at the famed Sonnet Club in the capital, adapting his mindset to different cricketing genres is paramount. “White-ball cricket demands an entirely different approach,” he explained. “I tailor my preparation to suit the format’s specific requirements. In red-ball cricket, the margin for error is significantly smaller. My primary goal is always to eliminate mistakes and bat for as long as possible.”