Australian cricket fans were surprised by Adam Zampa’s absence from the Rajasthan Royals‘ IPL 2024 squad. The 32-year-old leg-spinner, a regular in both ODI and T20 international teams, has now shed light on his decision to skip the lucrative tournament.
Demanding 2023 paves way for rest
Adam Zampa attributed his withdrawal to the grueling schedule he faced in 2023. Spending nearly five months away, including four in India for the IPL and ODI World Cup, took a toll on him mentally and physically. Prioritizing his well-being and his young family, Zampa made the difficult but necessary choice to focus on the upcoming T20 World Cup.
“There are several reasons why the IPL wasn’t for me this year,” Zampa told the Willow Talk podcast. “I think the most important one was the fact that it’s a World Cup year and I’m completely drained from 2023.“
“I did the full IPL last year. Obviously, the World Cup was three months in India as well. So I had the best intentions of trying to play the IPL again this year.“
“But once push came to shove, I felt like I just couldn’t really offer the Rajasthan Royals the best version of myself and looking forward to the World Cup, that’s what’s more important to me.”
Sharpening Up for T20 World Cup
With the T20 World Cup scheduled for June in the West Indies and United States, Adam Zampa will use this time to recharge and prepare. He acknowledged the importance of being in peak form for the World Cup, a tournament that holds greater significance for him than the IPL this year.
Playing Time Uncertainties at Rajasthan Royals
Adam Zampa’s limited playing time with the Rajasthan Royals last year also influenced his decision. With established spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal in the team, Zampa couldn’t guarantee a consistent spot in the playing XI. The uncertainty surrounding his role made the IPL a less attractive option.
“It’s not like I can say to myself, ‘Well, that’s alright I’ve got 14 games to prepare for a World Cup’,” Zampa said.
“I don’t know whether that’s actually going to be two games or four games or six games. So I worked out that maybe putting my family first, putting my body first was better for me.“
Family and Fitness Come First
Adam Zampa acknowledged the potential criticism he might face for withdrawing from the IPL. However, he emphasized prioritizing his family and ensuring his physical readiness for the World Cup. He expressed confidence in his decision, knowing it was the best course of action for him at this stage in his career.
World Cup Ambitions Trump Test Cricket Dreams
A two-time World Cup champion (once each in ODI and T20 formats), Adam Zampa also addressed his aspirations to play Test cricket. While representing Australia in whites remains a childhood dream, he wouldn’t trade his flourishing white-ball career for the uncertain prospect of a Test cap. For Zampa, the joy of winning World Cups outweighs the ambition of a single Test match.
Adam Zampa’s decision to prioritize his well-being and the T20 World Cup highlights the demanding nature of international cricket. While fans might have missed him in the IPL, his focus on the global T20 showpiece ensures he arrives fully prepared to help Australia defend their title.
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