Rising Star Sanat Sangwan: The Patient Architect of Delhi’s Batting Line-up
As the domestic cricket calendar heats up, few players are generating as much intrigue as Delhi’s 25-year-old opener, Sanat Sangwan. After a breakout 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season that saw him amass 828 runs at an impressive average of 69, Sangwan has firmly established himself as the backbone of Delhi’s batting order. Now, he faces his next major hurdle: proving his mettle on the national stage at the upcoming Duleep Trophy.
A Masterclass in Preparation
Sangwan’s evolution from a promising talent into a consistent run-scorer is the result of methodical, obsessive preparation. Recognizing that the life of an opener is fraught with variables—from unpredictable morning moisture to fading light—he structures his training to mirror the harshest match conditions.
"I prefer to go to the nets at around 8 am when there is a little moisture on the wicket," Sangwan explains. "I ask the net bowlers to start with a new ball, and I repeat the process after an hour. The more you practice in difficult conditions, the easier it becomes to adapt in a match."
His philosophy on red-ball batting is one of disciplined patience. Rather than chasing flamboyant cover drives early in his innings, he prioritizes the "price of his wicket," focusing on keeping the ball close to his body to frustrate opposing bowlers. "You tire them out in the first hour," he notes, "and then you pounce."
Mentality and Growth
One of the most significant shifts in Sangwan’s game has been his mental conditioning. Having struggled in the past with the "nervous nineties"—even suffering a dismissal at 99 last season—he has consciously removed the scoreboard from his internal focus. Alongside meditation to regulate his breathing and composure under pressure, Sangwan has developed a temperament that belies his age.
The Influence of Idols
Though he keeps a calm, understated demeanor on the pitch, Sangwan’s drive is fueled by two titans of sport: Virat Kohli and Lewis Hamilton.
His admiration for the F1 legend is literal; he sports a "Still I Rise" tattoo on his arm, reflecting Hamilton’s focus and patience. His connection to Kohli, however, is more personal. Having shared a dressing room with the Indian legend during a Ranji Trophy stint, Sangwan was struck by the dichotomy of Kohli’s personality. "On the field, you sense the intensity, but off it, he is so chill and humble," Sangwan says. "But after watching his work ethic, we were stunned."
Looking Ahead: The 1,000-Run Ambition
With the Duleep Trophy starting on August 23 at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, Sangwan is already looking beyond mere participation. He is chasing the milestone of a 1,000-run season, a goal that requires the seamless transition between the high-octane tempo of the Delhi Premier League (DPL) and the technical rigor of red-ball cricket.
"I believe you need to have a different mindset for each format," he says. "If your base is strong, you can switch comfortably. I’ve been preparing for the red ball even while playing white-ball cricket."
For a player who has spent years perfecting his technique, the Duleep Trophy serves as the ultimate litmus test. If his recent form is any indicator, Sanat Sangwan is not just ready for the next challenge—he is ready to define it.
