Guwahati, 14 August (HS): Barak Legends opener Bishal Saha has emerged as one of the leading performers in the inaugural Imperial Blue Packaged Drinking Water Assam Premier League, scoring 279 runs in six innings to top the tournament’s batting charts.

Saha has impressed with a combination of consistency and aggressive strokeplay, averaging 55.80 at a strike rate of 122.91. Despite his individual success, the batter says his primary focus remains contributing to the team’s campaign.

“I have been hearing about the league since the last 5-6 months. I was preparing for it. I am in a good mindset right now. I scored a good run in the first match,” Saha said.

The opener added that his approach is simple: continue improving his own scores while helping Barak Legends post winning totals.

Saha also highlighted the importance of the Powerplay, saying he aims to provide his team with a strong start. “I want to win in powerplay. I want to capitalise in powerplay. If I perform well in powerplay, then the other players will play well,” he said.

The Assam Premier League has given Saha an important platform to showcase his talent and attract attention at the higher levels of cricket. He credited the Assam Cricket Association for creating the opportunity.

“APL is the biggest platform for us right now. Whoever performs well here, be it a batter, a bowler or a fielder, will be seen by the selector. It is a very big platform to play at the upper level,” he said.

With Barak Legends in contention for the playoffs, Saha has set his sights beyond the Orange Cap. He wants to maintain his place at the top of the run charts while helping his team reach the final.

“My goal is to keep my individual performance at the top. If I can stay in the highest rank, that will be my big goal. I want to take the team to the finals,” Saha said. “I want to perform well in the finals and get a trophy for the team.”----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash