Nakul Jilka looking to rediscover peak and focus on squad fitness in new era

Following the shock transfer news in late 2023 that saw Edgware CC legend Sajith Sriwickramasekaran depart the club on a multi-pound deal to Australia, fans were reassured by the news that Nakul Jilka, a man boasting significant on-field experience (both at and away from Edgware) would be taking over the reigns. Nakul is no stranger to the captaincy role having captained for a number of seasons at his previous club, Bharat Olympians, before taking the armband for Edgware on multiple occasions over the past few seasons, typically in Sajith's absence. By his side this year will be Vidanda Galgamuwa whose stock has risen sharply in recent years following a transformation that has seen him become a respected batting all-rounder for the boys in blue.

Stephen Poopenshaft (SP), Edgware's Chief Cricket Correspondent, sat down with Nakul Jilka (NJ) in a mid-range whiskey bar to discuss cricket and the skipper's ambitions for the season.

SP: Taking over from Saj, how do you think your approach to captaincy will differ and what are you ultimately hoping to achieve in your new role?

NJ: Saj has done an incredible job with this squad during his tenure as captain, and he’s left behind a solid foundation for us to continue growing as a club, both on and off the field, and I wish him all the best in his endeavours down under.

As our players start levelling up their games, it will be a key focus of mine to really start focussing on in-game mentality - playing to specific situations, reading the the game and building accountability around their performances. Our target will be nothing short of promotion on both Saturday and Sunday, but with a long season ahead, it’s time to step up our game. With the unity and talent this team continues to display, I’m confident we’ll get there.

Above all however, this is a club that enjoys its cricket, and the company that comes with it, and it’s my top priority to ensure that continues to grow.

SP: We’re almost through winter nets, how is the squad looking? - Are there any improvements you’re looking to make from last year as a team?

NJ: We have a strong group of players that take a lot of pride in wearing the Edgware shirt, and the signs so far are very positive for the season ahead. There have been some noticeable improvements already, both with the bat and ball, and at the current run rate, we should be going into the season with a solid team in place, but we need to continue training hard to get there. I anticipate some selection dilemmas with serious competition for spaces, which is always great to have.

One area we need to improve, is both in the fitness and training departments. We can’t take for granted how much these areas can contribute to elevating our game. We have a very hectic schedule, with more back to back game weeks than ever, so we can’t leave any room for complacency. Pre-game warm-up drills, trainings sessions between game weeks, taking accountability over personal fitness are all basics which need to become a staple across the club this season.

SP: How do you think Vidanda will do in his official vice captain role this season?

NJ: I’m really excited to have Vidanda as vice captain this season. He’s come a long way over the years, and truly epitomises the development and values we love to see here at Edgware.

When I think of Vidanda I think of 3 things - he’s a go-getter on the cricket pitch, he’s an inspirational voice within the team and a true gent with a very contagious charm.

What Vid brings to the leadership team is very unique, and I expect him to really propel this team, particularly from a mindset perspective. I’m looking forward to seeing him develop and thrive in his new role, and I wish him nothing but the best.

SP: From a personal standpoint, you either hold or are close to holding many Edgware CC club records. What does a successful season look like for you?

NJ: Having come off a pretty rocky season with the bat, my personal goals are very much to rediscover my peak. Nets have been feeling good, and fitness is coming along well, so hopefully the runs will follow.

We’ve been promoted 2 years on the trot in the Herts league now, with an unbeaten season last year, and I have full confidence that we can continue that run this year. We’ve had our ups and downs in the Chess Valley league over the years, and last year was definitely below par, but we’ll come back fighting this season, that’s for sure.

What’s been great to see over the years is how much the talent in this team has evolved. With the limited infrastructure and funding this club has in place, our players have continued to develop and shine, and the team spirit has never shown signs of fading - some truly inspirational stuff. To see this continue over the next several months across the squad will define success for the upcoming season.

It’s a true privilege to be leading this club into the new season, and I’m looking forward to seeing some great things from this team over the coming months.

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Nakul's first test as captain will come in a pre-season friendly against Cockfosters on Sunday 21 April and we wish the club well in their final preparations.