Nothing has come easy for Kaushik Gandhi. He has had to fight every inch of the way in life and cricket.
When the news of his selection for the Duleep Trophy filtered in on Wednesday, you could be sure that he had earned it.
Compact and efficient at the crease, Kaushik notched up 785 runs at 60.38 with three centuries for Tamil Nadu in the last Ranji season.
The 27-year-old top-order batsman put a price on his wicket, was technically pleasing, and saw through testing spells. Kaushik offered stability to the line-up, displayed temperament and innings-building skills.
Being picked for Duleep Trophy marked a breakthrough for Kaushik, the first time he has travelled beyond the Tamil Nadu side.
“Naturally I am excited and looking forward to the Duleep Trophy. I want to prove I am not a one-season batsman,” said Kaushik in a conversation with The Hindu .
These are eventful days for Kaushik. He will be getting married this weekend and was busy with preparations when the Duleep call-up arrived. His smile got bigger.
A place in the India ‘A’ team is the next goal for Kaushik. “It’s the natural progression and I will have to be at my best.”
Sound off his back-foot, Kaushik is a strong cutter and puller. He is side-on, has a measured back-lift and possesses a tight defence.
Former South Zone and Tamil Nadu batsman J.R. Madanagopal has guided Kaushik for seven years, been with him in Grand Slam, a first division side in the TNCA league.
He said to this newspaper: “He is good at the waiting game. Mentally, he is strong. His methods against both pace and spin are good. Although he plays slightly beside the line, he uses his feet.”
Madanagopal added: “While Kaushik can blunt the attack or rotate it, he can play his shots too, has a stylish off-side game.”
With the Ranji Trophy following Duleep, Kaushik comprehends the coming days will be crucial. “I want to contribute even more to the Tamil Nadu side, add a couple of attacking shots.”
In fact, Kaushik oozed confidence. “We should win the Ranji Trophy this season,” he said.
