Karnataka's Binny signs for Rajasthan Royals

Spoilt for choice between Royal Challengers Bangalore, Team Kochi and the Royals, the 26-year-old cricketer has decided to sign up with the Rajasthan side after weighing the pros and cons. “I was approached by Royals, Kochi and RCB but I thought it will be in my best interest to go with the Royals,” Binny confirmed on Monday.

Binny becomes the second player from the State to be grabbed by the Royals after former India skipper Rahul Dravid. The veteran right-hander went to Shilpa Shetty co-owned team during the Bangalore auction after RCB showed no interest in buying back their once icon player.

Binny clarified he wasn’t approached by Dravid as has been the talk for a few days now. “I was approached by some Royals’ officials. As I said, with RCB and Kochi I don’t see myself in the playing 11.

“With Royals I hope to play in at least five to six matches unlike in the last season with the Mumbai Indians,” reasoned Binny.

The fiesty all-rounder, who had been in fine touch for Karnataka this season cracking two centuries under crunch situations, could play just one match last year for Mumbai in an inconsequential last tie against Kolkata Knight Riders.

A reluctant bowler of late following surgery to his bowling shoulder, Binny said he would be playing as an all-rounder.