New Delhi: Tamil Nadu cricketer Baba Indrajith recently shared insights into his time with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during the 2022 Indian Premier League (IPL), describing it as an invaluable learning opportunity. Indrajith discussed his experience on the Sony Sports Network’s Tamil Cricket Podcast, Cricket Petta.
Gaining Knowledge from Legends
Indrajith recalled the emotional experience of being part of the KKR squad, where he had the chance to interact with cricketing greats. “Being with KKR in 2022 was a highly emotional experience for me. Sharing the dressing room with players like Brendon McCullum and Pat Cummins taught me a lot. I also bonded well with David Hussey and McCullum, who had joined KKR after their CSK stint. Michael Hussey, too, is an exceptional human being,” he said.
Although Indrajith’s opportunities on the field were limited, playing just three matches and scoring 21 runs with a top score of 15, he valued the exposure and insights gained during the tournament.
Evolving Mindsets in Modern Cricket
Reflecting on how cricket has evolved since his early days, Indrajith highlighted the shift in approach and mindset among players and coaches. “When I started playing, senior players like Subramaniam Badrinath, Lakshmipathy Balaji, and Dinesh Karthik were part of the team. The game has changed significantly since then, particularly in terms of shot-making. Earlier, getting out playing a reverse shot could result in running laps as punishment. Now, such shots are seen as part of the modern game,” he explained.
Praising Ravichandran Ashwin
Indrajith also spoke about his experience playing alongside Ravichandran Ashwin in the Tamil Nadu team, calling him a “legend.” He praised Ashwin for his unwavering passion and fearless approach to the game. “Ashwin is always ready for a challenge, which is not easy. His courage and involvement in the game are truly remarkable,” he added.
Impressive Domestic Record
While his T20 numbers are modest, with 451 runs in 25 matches at an average of 21.47 and a strike rate of over 115, Indrajith has excelled in domestic cricket. In first-class cricket, he has amassed 5,545 runs in 81 matches at an impressive average of 52.31, including 16 centuries and 29 fifties, with a career-best score of 200. In List-A cricket, he has scored 1,617 runs in 60 matches at an average of 47.55, featuring two centuries and 11 fifties, with a top score of 103*.
Looking Ahead
Despite limited opportunities in the IPL, Indrajith’s domestic achievements and his drive to evolve with modern cricket make him a valuable player. His experience with KKR and interactions with legendary figures will undoubtedly contribute to his growth as a cricketer.
