Panthers hopeful of Pandey playing KPL

Belagavi Panthers did some smart business in the Karnataka Premier League (KPL) auction this month by roping in players like Sreenath Arvind, Stuart Binny and K Gowtham.

While the trio will form the crux of the team, they also boast of having India international Manish Pandey among their ranks.

Pandey was bought in the action for Rs 1.6 lakh but the right-hander’s participation in the tournament remains uncertain owing to his National team commitments, with Australia slated to play five ODIs beginning September 17.

Belagavi skipper Arvind was optimistic of Pandey’s involvement and said that he could make a difference even with limited playing time.

“He’s a big player for us and should be back on the 7th (September). We hope he’ll be available for a few games at the least. His involvement will be a big boost for the team. It’s more like he’s our trump card,” said Arvind at a pres conference on Monday.

The left-arm pacer also lauded teenage talent Shubhang Hegde saying: “He’s doing well at practice sessions and has improved a lot. He could be a key person in our team.”