Sandeep Warrier has received a huge surprise just 10 days before the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019, as the Kerala swing bowler has been signed up on Wednesday (13 March) by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the upcoming edition of the T20 event.
The 27-year-old, who was earlier part of the IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for three seasons but did not get a single game, didn't find a buyer during the IPL Auction 2019 despite having an excellent Ranji Trophy season 2018-19.
However, Warrier’s hard work finally paid off and he is hoping to get some IPL matches with the KKR in the upcoming 12th edition of the lucrative T20 event here.
Warrier told Sportstar on Wednesday, “I wasn't expecting to be picked by an IPL side so late. Even when I was asked on Tuesday to reach Kolkata, I thought they would probably try me in the nets. I was surprised to learn that they had already selected me.”
Meanwhile, Warrier has admitted that he was disappointed after went unsold in the auction despite brilliant domestic show, as he took 44 wickets to power Kerala to a historic semifinal spot in the Ranji Trophy followed by another fine show in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament.
He further added, “Yes, I was disappointed that I wasn't picked by any IPL team. Since I had done so well this season, I was hopeful that I might interest some team.”
Warrier’s Kochi-based coach K. Ram Mohan said, “I was desperately hoping that he would get an opportunity to prove himself in the IPL. I am so glad that his hard work has finally been rewarded.”
He is looking forward to do well in the IPL 2019 with his improved bowling. Warrier signed off by saying, “Yes, it is important that a bowler has to get a break when he is bowling well. I feel I have become a better bowler this season.”
(With Sportstar Inputs)
