The upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be the first competitive piece of cricket for all the Indian cricketers in months. Dinesh Karthik, the skipper of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has opened up on the challenge that lies ahead of them. Dinesh Karthik understands the obstacles that prevail moving forward but is equally willing to face them.
On Friday, the two-time champions confirmed that their share of Indian players and support staff reached Abu Dhabi and settled at the team hotel. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, cricketing activities have come to a halt almost worldwide. While few countries are finding their road back, the situation remains grim in India. Most of the Indian cricketers have confined themselves to the four walls of their homes and trained to stay fit.
Dinesh Karthik. Credit: BCCI
Dinesh Karthik claimed that the upcoming edition of IPL would be different. The keeper-batsman conceded that what has happened around the world is saddening and is a challenge to play cricket amid such times. However, Karthik sees it as an opportunity to bring happiness amongst the fans. The 34-year old is also aware of the challenges of staying within the bio-secure bubble, which they have not done at all. But he is ready to face everything and give it all.
“This IPL will be different. What has happened in the world has pained us deeply and it is surely a challenge to play cricket. But we understand that when we play the game, we bring happiness to our fans. Yes, there will be a bio bubble. Yes, we haven’t played or trained extensively for the last few months. Yes, the road ahead may be full of obstacles. But we promise to give it all,” Karthik stated as quoted by Times Now.
Dinesh Karthik’s men eager to get back on the field:
Kuldeep Yadav. Credit: BCCI
Left-arm chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav stated that initially, it was tough to get used to the lockdown since they were unable to practice outdoors. Nevertheless, he feels entirely ready now and would be even if a match is in the next seven days.
“Initially, it was very tough to adjust when the lockdown was imposed, because we were unable to practice outdoors. But I am completely ready now. In fact, I will be happy if there is a match in the next 7 days! I can’t wait to get back in action,” Yadav conceded.
Their star batsman Shubman Gill is equally anxious to get back in action since all they had been doing is staying mentally refreshed indoors. Gill added that he cannot wait to take the field and express himself.
“I think we all are really desperate (to play) because for a long time, we were in our houses and we have only been prepping mentally. We all are really excited. I’m very excited to go out there and express myself,” Gill asserted.
