Ravichandran Smaran is the new kid in the long list of talented batsmen from Karnataka who have made their mark in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 21-year-old is enjoying a sublime debut season at the senior level after scoring 170 runs in six innings in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy at a strike rate of 170.
He then followed it up with a total of 332 runs in six innings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, including a match-winning 76 in the semi-final against defending champions Haryana.
The left-hander also played a crucial role in the second group match against Puducherry with an unbeaten 100 off 87 balls to help Karnataka take three wickets.
RCB dream for Ravichandran Smaran
After making waves in List A cricket, the Bengaluru native is keen to make an impact in the IPL.
“Everyone’s dream is to play in the IPL and show our skills there,” Ravichandran Smaran told CricXtasy in an exclusive interview.
Also Read: RCB’s big-money signing impresses ahead of IPL 2025
Smaran, who led the Karnataka under-23 team to its first CK Naidu Trophy last year, said he has been trying to find a team in the IPL for the last two years without much luck.
“I have already done trials for 4-5 IPL teams. Mumbai (Mumbai Indians), Lucknow (Lucknow Super Giants) and Rajasthan Royals this year. I appeared in court for Delhi Capitals last year,” he said.
Winning Vijay Hazare Trophy is important
However, the young man is not discouraged. Having made his senior domestic debut in the Ranji Trophy in October 2024, Smaran believes he will do well in Karnataka, which could eventually lead to the IPL.
“I think (the opportunity in the IPL) is a consequence of winning championships for our team. I wish to win more matches for Karnataka and win championships,” he said.
Like every other Kannadiga, he wishes to play for Royal Challengers Bangalore one day and win that elusive title.
“I am okay with playing for any IPL team. But like any player from Karnataka and Bengaluru, it is a dream to play for RCB one day and win the title. But it is important to win games for the team I am in now,” he said.
Also Read: RCB Star gears up for 2025 season with brilliant all-round performance
The young batsman’s numbers in the Maharaja T20 Trophy in Karnataka have been excellent. He has participated in three editions of the tournament, scoring 541 runs in 21 matches with a strike rate of over 150.
Ravichandran Smaran hopes to lift the Vijay Hazare Trophy on Saturday after helping them reach the final of the tournament after six years. Five-time champions Karnataka take on Vidarbha in the final in Vadodara.
For more updates, follow CricXtasy on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Telegram and YouTube.