Anurag Narula Interview

We sat down with Anurag to learn a little bit more about him as he steps into our Junior Coaching role.

What three things are you looking to achieve in your first season as our Junior Coach?

1. In my first season, I want to develop players’ skills, teach them the importance of teamwork, and make every training session fun and memorable so they look forward to coming back.”

2. I aim to improve players’ cricketing techniques, build their confidence on and off the field, and create a culture of enjoyment, respect, and commitment within the team.”

3. My goals are to help players reach their potential, instill good habits both in training and matches, and encourage a lifelong love for the game.”

When did you first play for Grafton?

 I joined Grafton in December 2020 after deciding to move from my previous club, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my cricketing career.

What is your fondest junior cricketing memory?

My fondest junior cricketing memory has to be playing in a school final where I contributed with both bat and gloves. The thrill of competing, the team spirit, and the excitement of those matches really stuck with me and made me love the game even more.

Who was your sporting hero, whose poster was on your wall?

My sporting heroes were Cristiano Ronaldo and Virat Kohli. Both have shown incredible determination and work ethic in their representative sports, proving that putting in hard work for something you love is what truly sets you apart from others.

At what age did you decide that cricket was "your sport"

I started playing cricket when I was about 10 years old, and it quickly became clear that it was the sport I loved most. From then on, I knew I wanted to keep improving and see how far I could go.

How did you get on at secondary school?

I went to school in India, where I really developed my cricketing skills. I played for my school’s First XI and was actively involved as a wicketkeeper and batsman. Those years gave me a strong foundation that helped me progress into senior cricket.

Can you remember your first Premier game? And how did you get on? 

Yes, I remember my first Premier game, it was a big step up in competition, but I managed to perform well and contribute to the team. The experience gave me confidence and showed me the level of focus and skill required to compete at that standard.

Any games that stand out?

The match where you took 6/11 in an innings and ended up with 10 wickets in the match — that’s a career-defining performance for sure.

Senior cricketing highlights?

My senior cricketing highlight has to be making the Grafton Premier team and performing well against top competition. It proved to me that my hard work and determination was paying off, and that I can step up and perform at higher levels.

Who is your Favourite player you've played with?

• Dylan Taylor

The most 'famous player' you've played against?

• Lockie Ferguson 

Your Grafton legend?

• Tony Pickering 

Who is your IPL team and why?

It’s RC, as it’s the team about sticking together and getting better every day, even on the hardest days. This team shows what loyalty actually means, from the players through to the fan base. It is a phenomenal never-give-up attitude which separates this team from the others. 

Favourite Black Cap?

• Current: Lockie Ferguson

• Past: Kane Williamson

• Other: Finn Allen

Favourite Sporting Hero?

• Virat Kohli 

If you could have an all-expenses-paid dinner with 3 people, any 3 people, who would you choose and why? 

I would choose Cristiano Ronaldo, Virat Kohli, and my grandfather. Ronaldo and Kohli inspire me with their dedication, hard work, and success in football and cricket, showing what’s possible with passion and discipline. My grandfather has always been a role model in my life, and I’d love to hear his stories and advice over dinner.