I need to thank Rajasthan Royals for believing in my ability: Gowtham

The all-rounder from Karnataka, K Gowtham was bought by Rajasthan Royals for 6.2 crores for the upcoming season of Indian Premier League (IPL). Gowtham was delighted after getting picked up.

“Usually in my place, there are not too much of congratulations, thank you or sorry. So hearing that meant a lot. Coming from my parents and my brothers in itself was a special thing,” Gowtham said to ESPNcricinfo.

The 29-year-old Gowtham has not yet played at international level. He recently cemented his place in the state team, playing 22 first-class matches, 4 List A games and 27 T20s.

Gowtham was excited and didn’t want to miss the moment. He woke up at 6:30 and was in front of the television by 9.

“The name popped up and there were no bids for at least 20-30 seconds,” he said. “Those 20 seconds were very hard; it felt like 20-25 minutes. But I need to thank Rajasthan Royals for believing in my ability,” added Gowtham.

Rajasthan has a long history of encouraging unknown talents. Gowtham wants to take the one he has been offered to become a better batsman, capable of adapting to various situations.

“Rajasthan Royals are a very talented side. There are a lot of people I look forward to working with, a lot of positives. I’ll be playing alongside Steven Smith. He is the captain of the Australian team and one of the best in the world. We’ve all seen what he brings to the team, the way he plays with the players and the way he treats the players. And he knows how to get the best out of the players. And a big-hitting batsman like Ben Stokes, and Stuart Binny and a few others. I’m looking forward to learning a lot about batting in certain situations. That’s the most exciting part,” an excited Gowtham stated.

Gowtham further revealed that those three years away from the game has made him a better person and mentally tougher. He also cited the ways his family was always by his side to keep him on track.

The ability to take disappointments in his stride had come from his family, who used to drove him out of the house when chose to skip the odd practice session.

“My parents didn’t expect that I’d go for this amount or that. They’ve always wanted me to play a good brand of cricket more than anything. And my brothers and friends, they’ve all supported me day in and day out and contributed in some way or the other. Even my workplace. I’m employed with Vijaya Bank. They’ve given me time off whenever I’ve required it for training. They’ve always given me the liberty of practicing and not allowing me to worry about my financial security, so they’ve also been a part of this journey.

Whatever I’ve dreamt of, I can now fulfill. But it’s not for me, it’s for my family,” Gowtham concluded.

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