The Story:
The Kerala Cricket Association’s (KCA) is currently in search of a senior domestic cricketer, especially an opener, to act as a vital cog in the team and also as a mentor to the young brigade of the state-side. Kerala has seen an influx of some very exciting young names in the last few years, notably Sanju Samson and most recently Basil Thampi. Apart from these two names, there are a bunch of their cricketers who are busy gaining prominence in the domestic circuit. Keeping this in mind, the KCA has been on a lookout for a veteran from other states who can offer both experiences and mentorship.
No good sign yet
KCA has received requests from close 5-6 players till now. But, the board hasn’t zeroed in on any of the names for varied reasons.
Former Tamil Nadu top-order batsman Arun Karthik and India `A’ opener Tanmay Srivastava are only ones who have signalled some positive signs for the Kerala switch but nothing remains confirmed yet with the procedure stuck in the discussion stage.
The other players who have either been approached or who have got in touch with KCA are Paras Dogra (Himachal Pradesh), Ganesh Satish (Rajasthan).
“Our discussions with Arun Karthik has been positive. Moreover, we feel that he can settle into our system well since he is from Tamil Nadu. Though a top-order bat, Arun batted in the middle-order for most of the last season for Assam. That’s the only concern we have. The other option we are looking at is Tanmay Srivastava. He is a left-handed opener with a sound technique. That’s his advantage. We will be formalising the player before we pick our squads for the KSCA trophy,” added Jayesh.
Former India players also interested
Former India internationals Irfan Pathan and Wasim Jaffer have also approached KCA to play for the side next season. Irfan had reportedly informed KCA that he was willing to play the role of a mentor while playing for the state team. However, the cricket board is not excited about his prospect as he doesn’t fit their requirement of an opener.
Wasim Jaffer fits the requirement but the age criteria have hampered his chances. The 39-year-old too old to be considered as a long-term option.
Hopes doused
Punjab opener Jiwanjot Singh was the player in whom KCA was thoroughly interested but it has been reported that he turned down the offer made to him.
“Jiwanjot informed us that the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) were reluctant to leave him and he wouldn’t be getting an NOC from them. Uthappa wanted time till August to make up his mind and it wouldn’t be wise on our part to give so much time,” said KCA secretary Jayesh George. It seems KCA’s search for an opener may well end with a toss-up between Karthik and Srivastava.