Robin Uthappa is all set to play for Kerala

Kolkata Knight Riders‘ wicketkeeper-batsman Robin Uthappa is all set to switch his Ranji Trophy team. The Karnataka-based player is now very likely to be seen in Kerala colours. Uthappa was bewildered after he was left out of the Karnataka team midway through the season. But Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) was quick to capitalise on the dispute between Uthappa and the Karnataka Cricket Association (KSCA).

The right-hander has reinvented his shot making skills and was at the prime of his batting in the first part of the Indian Premier League season as he scored 388 runs for KKR. KCA Secretary Jayesh Goerge announced that they may declare Robin as a Kerala player in this week.

“Formal discussion is happening. May be this week, we will announce Robin Uthappa’s selection to play for our state in this year’s Ranji season,” said George on phone to PTI. He further revealed that Robin himslef is interested to play for Kerala. “Former KCA President KC Mathew had contacted Robin during a match between KKR and RCB, and I also coordinated with him. He (Robin) is interested, and we are also interested to have him in our side,” he added.

George came in contact with Robin when the latter was playing for India A against Australia. But at that time, he didn’t approach the batsman as he was concentrating on his game. “I was the manager when India-A toured Australia. He was in touch with me personally, also. That time he was concentrating on the tour and IPL, and hence I did not want to disturb him,” said Jayesh.

When asked about the surety of the transfer and terms and conditions set by Robin, he said: “For now, I would not like to talk about it. When time comes I will let you know. I would not give any off-the-record and on-the-record comments on the issue, but certainly talk about it when time comes.”

Why Robin?

When Jayesh was asked about why they wanted Robin Uthappa in their team, he said that they wanted an opener who could communicate in Malayalam. Uthappa is both an opener and fluent in Malayalam. Hence he was the obvious choice. We are in search of players. So, we made Robin our choice because he can communicate in our language also. We are also looking for an opening batsman,” said George.