CHENNAI: Former India cricketer L Balaji is confident his team Tuti Patriots will go all out to defend their title in Season 2 of the Tamil Nadu Premier League, set to start on July 22. Having come up the hard way in his career, Balaji believes that the league is the best thing to happen to rural cricketers, and is confident it will bigger and more competitive.
“Firstly, TNPL is a good initiative by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association. It’s an excellent opportunity for rural cricketers. What I noticed last year was that rural cricketers were very professional, which is a positive sign for the state,” he told Express after launching the Chennai leg of the league at the MA Chidambaram Stadium here on Monday.
“Tuti Patriots will give it their best to retain the crown. We have excellent backroom support like JR Madanagopal, who is vastly experienced. To have the right support staff is important for understanding players and needs of the team,” added the Tamil Nadu bowling coach.
S Badrinath, Karaikudi Kaalai captain, had said previously that Patriots had a balanced side and were sure to make the playoffs. “Right from picking the squad, helping us come out of the comfort zone and qualifying for the playoffs last time, the support staff did a brilliant job. Plus, when you have 3 to 4 former Test players, naturally the team will be rich in experience, and it showed in our performance. It’s a question of how youngsters gel and play as a unit,” opined Balaji.
Dinesh Karthik is in the form of his life, having helped his TN bag two national titles. A good IPL also saw him make a national recall, and he has done well. “It’s great to have DK in the team. He’s an established player and has been doing well for the state and country. He’s a multi-tasker, and can play the role of captain, wicketkeeper and batsman. He’s one of the most experienced and dynamic players in the country, and an asset to any team. We expect a good show from him,” said the KKR bowling coach.
The 35-year-old felt TNPL had a good impact in the districts. “The TNCA league has produced great cricketers for the state and country. Similarly, TNPL will be a platform for rural cricketers to enter the mainstream, else they only get to see the odd Ranji game. When they action (TNPL) live, the boys in the districts will be inspired, and we’ll see more T Natarajans and N Jagadeesans.”
ashok.v@newindianexpress.com