What’s the story?
He might have played his last international for Team India close to two years ago, but Robin Uthappa, on the wrong side of 30, still believes that he can represent his country again.
“The dream is to play for India again and represent the country in Test matches. The dreams are there but one can't think too far forward. You want to stay in the present and give your best foot forward. I believe hard work never goes unnoticed. I truly believe my turn will come”.
In case you didn’t know…
Uthappa made his India debut in 2006, and made his instant impact with his adventurous strokeplay and calm head. His innings against England at the Oval in 2007 reaffirmed his status as one of the most promising youngsters in the team.
However, with the arrival of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, coupled with Uthappa’s own inconsistent performances, he was overlooked from the limited overs squads post 2010.
It meant that more than even a decade after making his debut, Uthappa’s ODI caps were limited to 46.
The heart of the matter
In an interview with iplt20.com, Uthappa said that he hadn’t given up on his dream of playing for the country, and to represent India in Tests, something that he hasn’t done till now. He acknowledged the fact that this season with the Kolkata Knight Riders is an important one and he needs to be at the top of his form to make a mark once again.
He also opened up about his partnership with Gautam Gambhir, and how they understand each other’s game pretty well, which has been the reason for their resounding success.
Uthappa was in fine nick against the Rising Pune Supergiants, first effecting three stumpings, and following it up with a match-winning 87 to guide his side home.
What’s next?
Uthappa’s gems with the bat will be noted by the selectors when they sit down to choose the side for the Champions Trophy that begins on June 1.
As for KKR, they play their next game against the Delhi Daredevils at the Eden Gardens on 28th April.
Author’s take
He might not be very high in the pecking order, but Uthappa does stand an outside chance of making it to the Champions Trophy squad if he continues to bat the way he is for KKR.
The Indian ODI team doesn’t have a dedicated back-up keeper for MS Dhoni, and Uthappa, with his clean work behind the stumps this season, could fit in the role perfectly.
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