Premier Cricket 2022-23: Yash Pednekar scores maiden First XI century in Richmond victory

A breakout performance from Richmond’s Yash Pednekar, who reveals how a recent stint overseas has proven invaluable in his rise.

It was a career-best knock in Richmond’s First XI from Yash Pednekar.

The opener rocketed his side to victory over Geelong on Saturday – cracking 102 runs off 228 deliveries in the Tigers’ 3-229 total, toppling the Cats’ 219 – in his maiden top-flight century.

Partnering with fellow opener Shobit Singh (51 off 133), the pair put on 124 as the hosts romped to an eighth win of the season.

Pednekar says while the return of red ball cricket hasn’t been without its challenges, Saturday’s milestone served to unlock his potential at the level.

“Coming back to red ball cricket, in the first couple of games, I probably forgot what (I) do well in red ball cricket and the strengths and weaknesses,” Pednekar said.

“On the weekend I gave myself a chance, we didn’t get off to a flying start but I put trust in my defence and got myself in … it helped at the other end having Shobit there.”

Yash Pednekar batting for Richmond. Picture: Valeriu Campan

A former under-16 Australian representative, Pednekar has backed up from his showing of 444 runs last season with 341 from 12 appearances so far.

The right-hander didn’t crack triple figures with the bat last season after serving up two tons in the seconds in 2020-21, but credits a recent five-month stint plying his trade with UK-based North Leeds Cricket Club in his step forward.

“Playing all around the year for the last couple of years has definitely helped – just playing in the nets you probably don’t get the same as playing under different conditions and challenges,” he said.

“In the UK, especially with the moving ball, it put me in good stead especially in terms of facing good fast-bowling.

“Here, it (the ball) doesn’t move as much – it might for the first 10 to 15 overs, and after that it’s not that much … I think that’s definitely helped me, playing more games and learning what I do well and knowing my game.

“Mentally as well, the mental processes are the most important things I’ve found, (as) the technique is there.”

The Tigers sit fourth on the ladder with an 8-2-4 record and travel to Princes Park to take on ladder-leader Carlton this weekend.

Pednekar says with another finals appearance within reach, the challenge is a welcomed one.

“I think we’ve been playing good cricket all throughout the year (and) we’ve had a few close losses,” he said.

“Going into Carlton next week is always a challenge at Princes Park, (but) it’ll be a great challenge hopefully before finals to get us prepared.

“We’re in a pretty good position and just like last year, we’ll try and go as far as we can.”