I hope I’m able to win matches for KKR like Andre Russell, says KKR's new recruit Ramandeep Singh

Ramandeep Singh, the 26-year-old all-rounder, is filled up with excitement after being bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for INR 20 lakhs ahead of the IPL 2024 auction.

With the experience of playing for Mumbai Indians in previous seasons, Ramandeep is now eager to make his mark with the two-time IPL champions, KKR. His admiration for West Indian all-rounder Andre Russell runs deep, and he hopes to replicate Russell's match-winning heroics for the Knight Riders.

In a recent interview, Ramandeep expressed his happiness after being picked by KKR, “I was following the auction on TV but once my name came up, I switched off the telecast thinking we’ll see what happens. After some time, I started getting calls and messages from my family and friends that I was picked by KKR. I hoped that KKR would pick me and I was glad that it happened. I’ve heard a lot that this is one of the best franchises in terms of supporting the players in improving their skills and having quality practice sessions. So, I'm very happy to be picked by KKR,” he said while speaking to KKR.

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I’m very excited: Ramandeep Singh

Ramandeep, who had a decent IPL 2022 season with Mumbai Indians, scoring 45 runs and taking 6 wickets, including a crucial 3/20 against SRH and 2/29 against DC is now eager to take his game to new heights under the guidance of KKR's coaching staff, led by Abhishek Nayar. 

“I’m very excited. Knowing that many KKR players have represented the Indian team recently fills me with confidence, because the ultimate goal of any cricketer is to represent the country. I’m hoping to perform for this franchise and go on to fulfill my dream of representing the Indian team. I’m looking forward to working with Abhishek Nayar sir. He’s one of the best coaches going around in India so I’m very happy to be working alongside him," he added

However, his idolization of Andre Russell has Ramandeep truly motivated, “I’ve been following Russell right from the start and have seen how he creates an impact in the T20 format with the bat as well as the ball. Whenever I bat, I try and think what Andre would do in this situation and then look to execute that. As far as the bowling is concerned, Russell bowls the most difficult overs for his team and he’s won so many games for KKR. I hope even I’m able to win matches for KKR like Andre.” Ramandeep concluded.

KKR, the third-most successful team in the IPL with two titles (2012 and 2014), will be strengthened by the return of Gautam Gambhir as the team's mentor. Under Gambhir's captaincy, KKR had won their two IPL trophies, and his presence in the support staff will undoubtedly inspire the team.

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Shreyas Iyer will lead the side on the field, and Ramandeep is keen to contribute to the team's success. The Kolkata-based franchise will play its first game of the tournament against Sunrisers Hyderabad at their home.