IPL 2019: Kamlesh Nagarkoti hoping to leave mark after being retained by KKR

Kamlesh Nagarkoti is now under the supervision of the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

Kamlesh Nagarkoti is still under treatment borne by the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) | DECCAN CHRONICLE

The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has retained the services of India U-19 World Cup winning pacer Kamlesh Nagarkoti on Thursday (November 15) ahead of the IPL Auction 2019 for the 12th edition of the lucrative T20 event in the country.

Nagarkoti was a part of the KKR squad in the IPL 2018, but unfortunately, the young pace gun missed out with a back injury. However, he has managed to continue his association along with other 12 retained players with the purple brigade for IPL 2019.

The 18-year-old, who is able to hit around 140 kmph speed, hasn’t bowled in nine months and is still going through recovering process, but franchise showed faith on him and retained for the upcoming season and Nagarkoti also keen on to meet with the expectations of the two-time IPL title holder.

On Nagarkoti, Venky Mysore, the CEO of KKR said, “We have retained 13 players now, including Kamlesh Nagarkoti. He was injured, and he, unfortunately, couldn't play for us. He is still recovering, but given the skills and ability he has, we picked him with that intention, and we have retained him again.”

Surprised and delighted young pacer said on his fresh association with the KKR on Friday (November 16), “I can’t believe that I didn’t play a game and they still retained me. It shows the trust KKR has in my abilities. I also hope to do well for them when I play.”

Meanwhile, Kamlesh, who visited two physiotherapists in London, is still under treatment borne by the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), revealed, “I still have pain on my back. There is no confirmation by when can I recover but I feel it will take two more months. One asked to go for surgery, the second physician said it’s not required and the injury will heal on its own.”

Nagarkoti also said that he got a call from state association –Rajasthan but he had to skip the Ranji Season, saying: “I got a call but I don’t think I can be fit within the Ranji tenure because I will need to be match-fit. I need to train. I can’t get in directly. I will first focus on my recovery process.”

He will now under the supervision of the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Nagarkoti signed off by saying, “I keep thinking when can I resume. I keep talking to the physios at the NCA. They tell me the suitable programmes to follow to get closer to being fit. I try to follow their instructions.”

(With Sportstarlive Inputs)

 
 

By Rashmi Nanda - 17 Nov, 2018

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