Badrinath: It’s a blow to my chest

S. Badrinath, an intrinsic part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise for six years, remained unsold at the end of the two-day Indian Premier League (IPL) auction in Bangalore on Thursday.

The Tamil Nadu batsman, understandably, appeared shattered by the outcome. “I am 100 per cent disappointed. It’s a blow to my chest. I really don’t know how to react. I have to look forward and stay positive. It’s important to move on,” he told The Hindu.

While Badrinath wasn’t picked up by any team on Wednesday, a flicker of hope presented itself when his name came up for auction again on the second day. However, no franchise bid for him. “I was optimistic about being picked up at least the second time because initially teams generally have different options and go for them,” he said.

Did he feel let down by CSK as it didn’t bid for him? “I have played 90-odd (95) games for CSK and I have a good record in the IPL. I am not blaming the CSK because they might have had something else in mind. I was disappointed because I didn’t receive a single bid from any franchise,” said Badrinath.

Having set a base price of Rs. 1 crore for himself, did he limit his chances? “I don’t think it’s a factor. I had based it on my experience, my contribution and records.”

When asked if members of the cricketing fraternity had got in touch with him, the 33-year-old replied in the negative. “No one has called me yet. I have only my family and very close friends for support.”

Badrinath admitted he would miss being part of the IPL. “It’s been a big influence on my life and career. It’s hard to digest, but it’s not the end of everything. It’s probably the case only this year.”

Contrasting feeling

Meanwhile, on the other end of the emotional spectrum were B. Aparajith and Vijay Shankar, both of whom were picked up for Rs. 10 lakh each.

“Since it’s the first time there’s an auction for uncapped players, I had no idea how it would pan out. I knew my name was to come up in the first lot in the morning. It was a different feeling to see my name in the auction. I am very happy to be playing for CSK again,” said the 19-year-old Aparajith.

Vijay Shankar said he experienced a flush of thrill as his name was announced in the auction.

“I was with my family watching the auction and there was anxiety. (But) It was all over in five seconds. I am thrilled to be a part of CSK.”