Karun Nair’s thoughts reflected the thinking in the Rajasthan Royals camp ahead of Friday’s game against bottom side Royal Challengers Bangalore. “Teams which have lost a few matches become desperate to win, so we expect them to come hard at us,” said the Karnataka batsman.
Karun is taking the opportunity to watch, train and interact with the Australian World Cuppers in the Royals squad. “We can approach them directly for advice regarding anything, from training to technique.”
Shane Watson took over the captaincy from Steve Smith against Chennai Super Kings. James Faulkner is the other Australian adding value to the Jaipur franchise with bat and ball. Royals moved base to Ahmedabad this season, losing the previous home tie against Kings XI Punjab in the Super Over. “The match was close. We were in the game till the Super Over,” he said.
Karun’s 25 off 20 balls is his highest score in six matches this season, and so will be looking to fire against his former side. He wore RCB’s colours in 2012 before coming to Royals’ attention and enjoyed a successful 2014 season, averaging 33 runs in 11 games.
Rated among India’s most promising talents, he made a mark across different formats in first-class cricket for Karnataka. His confidence level has gone up a notch in the elite company at Rajasthan Royals, mentored by Rahul Dravid, and has adapted his technique in the T20 format while retaining his flair and focus.
