CHENNAI: Former India and Tamil Nadu cricketer Hemang Badani is “highly disappointed” with the state side’s show in recent white-ball tournaments. TN did not live up to their billing as they crashed out in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (50 overs) semifinals and didn’t make the cut for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (T20) knockouts.
“We are in a transition phase right now but our performances in the white-ball tournaments have been way below par. With the side that we have, that’s not the way TN should be playing. To not even qualify in the Mushtaq Ali is disheartening,” said Badani on the sidelines of the trophy and jersey unveiling event of the Junior Super Kings inter-school T20 tournament.
TN would now be eager to turn their fortunes around in the Ranji Trophy. Badani felt TN’s new coach Sulakshan Kulkarni could help them make a difference in the longest format.
“We have never had issues as a side in white-ball, the issues over the years have been in red-ball. I think we haven’t even qualified for Ranji knockouts in the last five to six years. We have a good side but the way you go and play, how you prepare and how you plan, matters a lot. Planning is extremely important when you play four-day games. I hope that with Sulakshan’s presence, and the recruitment of fast bowler Kuldeep Sen will help TN,” said the 47-year-old.
Badani welcomed the move to appoint left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore as the captain for the Ranji season. Badani, who has worked with Sai Kishore at Chepauk Super Gillies in the Tamil Nadu Premier League, believes the 27-year-old will do a good job.
“I have known him since he was a young kid. He is an intense player and is somebody who gives his heart and soul. I feel he will drive the side forward, and instil good habits and a fighting spirit. But the team and the coaching staff need to complement him likewise. And, at times, give the captain the freedom to express himself,” said Badani.
Badani in awe of SudharsanBadani was effusive in his praise for TN southpaw B Sai Sudharsan, who has found himself in the limelight in recent weeks, as he dazzled in his debut international assignment – he scored two half-centuries for India against hosts South Africa. “The best thing about Sudharsan is his commitment to the sport. He is somebody who is on the ground preparing day in and day out. Talent is one thing, but what truly makes this boy special for me are his hunger and desire. Now, people and selectors have recognised him; they know he can play. He has already put himself in the queue for the next batch of players,” said Badani.
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