Karn Sharma Ends his Contract with Vidarbha Cricket Association

The Indian leg-spinner Karn Sharma has ended his contract with the Vidarbha Cricket Association. Thus, Karn will be seen playing for Andhra in the upcoming season of the Ranji Trophy.

In fact, the leg-spinner had signed a two-year contract with Vidharbha. However, he decided to part ways as the state association could not confirm his playing XI spot.

Meanwhile, Karn Sharma played for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2018. The leg break bowler became the only player to win three consecutive IPL titles.

However, VCA gave the permission to Karn to look at other options.

“We can understand his decision but for us, the team’s interest is paramount. We don’t interfere in team selection. It’s team management’s call for the final eleven. They take a decision in the best interest of the team. It was tough to leave out a player like him, but those who replaced him performed brilliantly. We wish him well for the future,” a source in Vidarbha Cricket Association told TOI on Wednesday.

The source added that the Vidarbha coach Chandrakant Pandit focuses on the whole team rather than individuals. The focus is the betterment of the team. Thus, there is no questioning the decision of the coach.

“For Vidarbha coach Chandrakant Pandit, the team is more important than individuals. It’s all about a combination for a particular match. He comes from Mumbai, where he has seen many stars. For him, every individual is the same. He has given us the results so you can’t question,” the VCA source went on to clarify.

Karn Sharma was replaced by Aditya Sarvate after he had suffered a knee injury. The all-rounder Sarvate was able to grab his chance as he performed well in Vidarbha’s triumph last season. Sarvate average 47.14 with the bat while he averaged 16.65 with the ball in the previous season of the IPL. Thus, he was instrumental in the success of the team.

Meanwhile, Karn Sharma will be looking for better opportunities with the Andhra team to leave his mark.