JOIN USBengaluru boy K C Cariappa shot to limelight after he debuted with Kolkata Knight Riders at the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year.
He confirmed his class by bagging the wicket of A B de Villiers the same year. The 22-year-old has been picked up by Kings XI Punjab this year and although the team hasn’t been doing all that well, the young cricketer is excited to be a part of all the colour and glamour surrounding the game. “The IPL has not only added a new dimension to the game of cricket but has also brought people of all age groups into the stadium. I look forward to being a part of the IPL every year,” says Cariappa, who was born and raised in the city.
Cariappa is also employed with Vijaya Bank and was selected under the sports quota. “I work a 9 to 5 job in the bank and train in cricket after that. I take a break from work only to train in cricket,” he says.
Cariappa regularly trains at the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and is working towards getting into the Indian cricket team. “I have been training really hard to play for the country. I know it’s really tough to get into the Indian cricket team but I am hopeful that someday I will be able to be a part of it,” says Cariappa. He says that cricket has been a part of his life from his school days.
“My family, friends and college mates always come to the stadium whenever I play a match in Bengaluru. I feel the pressure to perform and excel only when I am playing in my city,” says Cariappa.
He finds the opportunity to interact with international players during the IPL an enriching experience, both in terms of getting an insight into another culture and way of life and introducing them to Indian ways.
Cariappa says he has always looked up to Sachin and admired his grit, determination and commitment to the game of cricket.
“I like Virat for his style and positive attitude. The more you move around with them, the more you learn from them,” feels Cariappa. Ask him about how he handles the pressure involved in the game and he says that the IPL has taught him how to overcome disappointments. “I’ve understood that failures and shortcomings are a passing phase. Achievers never get stuck in the past but move on,” he adds. It’s been 2 months since Cariappa has been away from home for the IPL. He says he can’t wait to get back home.
“I missed my mother’s cooking for the last 2 months. So coming home is all about getting to relish my favourite dishes and spending time with family and friends before I return to my routine,” he shares.