Karn Sharma thanks Murali Karthik; wants to prove himself as an all-rounder

Karn Sharma

Delighted at the national call-up, Railways leg-spinner Karn Sharma, who made a name for himself representing Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League through his economical spells, has said that playing in the IPL has helped him and that he wants to be known as a ‘specialist all-rounder’.

He said, “I take my batting as seriously as I take leg-spin bowling. I would like to be known as a specialist allrounder and make a name for myself in international cricket. Yes, I am very happy that I have got a call-up for the senior team but at the same time I must tell you that I don't work hard expecting things. I work hard because I know that hard work pays off in the end. The real challenge begins now.”

The 26-year-old had a good outing in the recent ‘A’ tour of Australia, delivering a match-winning performance against South Africa A. He played a handy innings of 39 runs while also managing to pick up 2/35 with the ball.

He added, “Playing in IPL has been a learning experience for me but this A tour to Australia was in a different league. I believe you learn to handle pressure better. Even though it was India A, I was representing my country. I had a bit of role in India A's win in one of the matches. I felt so good after winning the match against South Africa A. I didn't do anything extra that day. I knew eight wickets were down but the match situation or pressure didn't affect me.”

He also thanked retired left-arm spinner Murali Kartik for playing a key role in his development as a player at Railways. He said, “"I would like to express my gratitude to Murali Kartik for helping me from the time I came into Railways team. I practised leg-spin since I was a kid but it was Katy bhai (as Railway boys affectionately call Kartik), who explained to me subtle nuances of leg spin bowling. I am also thankful to Railways coach Abhay Sharma. I have reached here because of these people. My endeavour will be to learn as much as possible from the Indian dressing room.”