It was quite fascinating to watch R Vinay Kumar evolving as the lynchpin of the Karnataka attack. The Davanagere-boy has graduated into the tough role with ease, emerging as the top wicket-taker for the State in the last two seasons.
When Ceat selected Vinay as the best domestic bowler, it was a just recognition of talent. The medium-pacer was awarded with Rs 1 lakh, which he said will work as a motivation to strive hard for bigger goals.
Yousuf Pathan tore the veil of anonymity with a fine show in the Twenty20 World Cup in South Africa.
Subsequently, the Baroda all-rounder set the domestic circuit ablaze with some brutal knocks and grabbing wickets aplenty with his off-spin.
The judges had little hesitation in picking Pathan as the Domestic Cricketer of the Year. Pathan, who topped the chart with 50 points, was awarded Rs 2 lakh. "It is a big honour to receive this award. Hopefully, I can go on better my performance in the coming season," he said.
The last domestic season also witnessed another cricketer come out of the oblivion of selectors and fans. Aakash Chopra was a forgotten figure after the tour of Australia nearly four years ago, but the Delhi opener hit the headlines with some big innings in Ranji Trophy.
Chopra proved that he can transform his obdurate bat into a firing cannon as well with some quick knocks in the following one-day competition. In fact, that also led IPL team — Kolkata Knight Riders — to bid for him.
He was the unanimous choice for the 'Domestic Batsmen of the Year' that carries Rs 1 lakh prize money. "Last season was a good one for me as I was able to score runs in both forms of the game. Now, I am looking forward to playing for the country," he said.
The warm evening was graced by legendary GR Vishwanath, who exhorted the awardees to work hard for a brighter future, and Syed Kirmani, left-arm spinner Sunil Joshi, Sadanand Vishwanath, and cricketer-turned commentator Arun Lal.
Many members of the victorious India Under-19 team and West Zone, who are here to play the Deodhar tie against South Zone, were also present.
Other awards: Most promising youngster: Cheteshwar Pujara ; Best U-19 Cricketer: Rishi Dhawan; Lifetime Achievement award: Amarjeet Kaypee.
