In a rather interesting twist to this season’s first division league, newly-appointed chairman of the State senior selection panel, S. Sharath, will also be turning out as a cricketer.
Still fighting fit at 41, Sharath will be representing UFCC (T. Nagar). This, the southpaw said to The Hindu , would give an advantage in seeing and assessing talent first hand.
“Yes, I will have a clear idea on the capabilities of a young cricketer,” said Sharath.
Looking forward to heading the selection committee after two dismal seasons for the State side — it failed to qualify for the knock-out stages of the Ranji Trophy — Sharath said, “The facilities provided by the TNCA and its president have been excellent. It is for the cricketers to make full use of them.
“In fact, the players should be inspired by the personal interest the president has shown.”
Sharath, among the former batting giants of the State side, said, “There should be a sense of pride in representing the Tamil Nadu team. It is an honour. The Tamil Nadu team was a feared one by the other sides. That is not the case now. I want to bring that pride back to the team.”
The left-hander, who is planning to give pep talks to the cricketers, said, “Every player, whether he is a senior or a junior, should take up responsibility. Everyone has to be accountable for his performance. And we need to fix accountability. The team has to play as a unit and great attitude is the key.”
