IPL 2018: Performing in the IPL prepares you mentally for international cricket - Karun Nair

Karun also acknowledged the league's contribution to his development.

He is most known for being India's second triple centurion but Karun Nair first caught the eyes for his runs in the Indian Premier League. It was the exploits in the league that helped his cause in getting the Indian call-up. Having played for Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Daredevils in the past, Karun was this year purchased in the auction by the Kings XI Punjab for a substantial sum of 5.6 cr. 

His CV shows the teams' liking for him but also reflects the fact that he hasn't been able to build a home anywhere for himself. Cricketnext recently had a word with Karun were he talked about how he is very determined to do well for Kings XI this year. 

Giving credit to the IPL for his development Karun firstly stated, "IPL has played a huge role for me, as a domestic player playing in the IPL and doing well gives you the confidence as you're playing against international quality. I was lucky enough to play with the Royals. They put me out there and gave me confidence. I am also thankful that they gave me sufficient time to make an impact,"

Karun had an emotionally see-sawing experience when he scored that magnificent triple hundred at chepauk versus England and was dropped from the eleven that played Bangladesh in the one-off test. He struggled against Australia for three innings and hasn't played for India since. About that phase, Karun said, "I have learnt that it is important to maintain an emotional balance and not go overboard with things. Now, it doesn't affect me as much as it did before. I can only do my bit and score at the domestic level. Rest is up to the selectors and the team management, what I do know is that I will be a better player next time I get an opportunity"

Karun also expressed that he is blessed to have Virender Sehwag around as the mentor for the side.
"He is separate from any other cricketer in terms of his fearlessness and the way he played his game. I can't be like him but I will have a word with him. He will understand my situation (of having scored and then being dropped) better. If his style works for me, then I will certainly work on it," he said. 

Also, the opportunity to work with faces very close to him in his Karnataka teammates like KL Rahul and Mayank Aggarwal will really help Karun said. Reiterating, "It's certainly an advantage playing together, we understand each other's game really well and it will be exciting to play together. We have a very well rounded team and I am looking forward to an exciting season ahead,"

Karun finally had a word on his captain for the season Ravichandran Ashwin and how his brains are likely to help the team on the field. Karun praised Ashwin's analytical cricketing way,  "I am excited to play under him. I have known him for the past two-three years and he is a really smart guy. He thinks on his feet and is a forward thinking captain. "


 

 
 

By Kashish Chadha - 03 Apr, 2018

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