I have learnt from my mistakes, says Pradeep Sangwan

While playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in the summer of 2013, the Delhi speedster tested positive for stanozolol, a prohibited steroid.

He was soon barred from participating in any BCCI-run events for violating the anti-doping regulations. Owing to enormous support from Delhi’s senior cricketers — Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir — and coaches, Sangwan has learnt from his mistakes.

“It was my fault and I learnt from my mistakes. I always tell people to first talk to the trainer or physio before talking any medication. BCCI has also given us the WADA list and even educated us,” said the 25-year-old on the eve of Delhi’s Vijay Hazare semifinal clash against Himachal Pradesh.

“Now I’m very scared. I always consult the trainer or physio even to take a multi vitamin tablet. I’m cautious because I don’t want to get banned again,” he explained.

During the hard time, family members motivated Sangwan to overcome the situation.

“They told me I had made a mistake but I shouldn’t look back, instead work hard towards my comeback. My family of course was a great source support,” he added.

After 18 months away from cricket, Sangwan staged a comeback against Vidarbha in the 2014-15 Ranji Trophy season. “I was frustrated and felt like life had come to a standstill. It was two long years, in which I trained hard but the fact that I could not play frustrated me,” he stated. During the ban, Sangwan trained hard with the athletes and played football to improve his speed and fitness. In 2015-16 Ranji Trophy season, Sangwan has picked up 32 wickets at an average of 18.21.