Looking forward to CSK stint: Gowtham

BENGALURU: Chennai Super Kings broke the bank to snap up Karnataka all-rounder K Gowtham, who, on Thursday, was sold to the former champions for a staggering Rs 9.25 crore - the highest uncapped purchase at an IPL auction.
The 32-year-old off-spinner was traded by Rajasthan Royals to Kings XI Punjab last season, but was released by the Punjab franchise after he featured in just two matches. His base price was Rs 20 lakh.
A talented off-spinner and handy batsman, Gowtham triggered a bidding war between Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
CSK joined the fray at the Rs 7.75-crore mark. While KKR’s run petered out, SRH seemed determined to rope in Gowtham, but had to concede when CSK upped their bid.

This will be Gowtham's fourth franchise in five years. In 2017, he was bought by Mumbai Indians for Rs 2.2 crore, but didn't get a game. The ensuing two seasons were spent with Rajasthan Royals (Rs 6.2 crore) and he featured in 22 matches.
His stint at the Royals is best remembered for the unbeaten 11-ball 33 runs he smashed in their win against Mumbai Indians in the 2018 season.
Gowtham, who is currently with the Indian Test contingent in Ahmedabad as a net bowler, was thrilled with the outcome at the auction.
Speaking to TOI, he said, "To be honest, I never expected this price. That said, money isn't the priority, opportunity is. I'm thrilled to be joining Chennai Super Kings. It is a dream come true to be part of a team led by MS Dhoni."
Dwelling further on the prospect of sharing the dressing room with Dhoni, the Karnataka ace added, "I've always idolized Dhoni. I've always tried my best to emulate his calmness on the field and commitment to the game. I'm looking forward to being part of the team."
Gowtham endured a difficult 2020 season in the UAE. He was dropped after conceding 25 runs in the last over in Kings XI Punjab's loss to Mumbai Indians and spent the rest of the season on the bench.
"As a cricketer you would like to play all matches. But I guess that one over against Mumbai Indians cost me my place in the team. But those are situations we have to endure as cricketers. I don't believe in looking back, instead I take the positives from the lessons learnt and look ahead," he said.
Gowtham is enjoying his time bowling to Virat Kohli & Co at the nets. "It is a blessing to be part of the set-up. You get to watch the best in the business from close quarters and bowl to them as well. Every day you get to challenge yourself and become a better cricketer," he signed off.