Karnataka medium pacer V Koushik set to move to Goa
BENGALURU: Karnataka's frontline medium pacer V Koushik , who had spearheaded the team's bowling attack for the last few years, is all set to move on from Karnataka. The 32-year-old, who made his Ranji Trophy debut in 2019, will be turning out for Goa in the forthcoming domestic season.
On Tuesday, Koushik was handed the no objection certificate (NOC) by Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).
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A late bloomer who gave up a corporate job to pursue a career in cricket, Koushik has featured in 23 first-class matches, claiming 93 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 2.13.
Koushik, who relies more on accuracy and less on pace, was ignored a few years ago, but made a comeback to become an integral part of the team.
Last season, with regulars Prasidh Krishna and Vidwath Kaverappa unavailable, and Vyshak Vijaykumar picking up an injury midway through the season, Koushik showed admirable character to shoulder responsibility in all formats.
He banked on his strengths — consistency and ability to get movement in the air and off the pitch.
Speaking to TOI about his decision to switch allegiance, the joint highest wicket-taker (18 scalps) in Karnataka's Vijay Hazare Trophy win last season, said: "I'm 32, and for the past couple of months I've been thinking about my future. I wanted to leave my home state on a high. I know I have a few good years of cricket left in me and felt the time was ripe for me to make way for youngsters in Karnataka."
While he said he would miss his home turf, Koushik has pegged the call as a practical rather than an emotional one.
"I've been a part of Karnataka teams that have won the Vijay Hazare and Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 trophies, but I wish I could have helped Karnataka win the Ranji Trophy as well."
Koushik, who made his limited opportunities count, leaves behind big shoes for youngsters like Abhilash Shetty and Vidhyadhar Patel to fill.
On Tuesday, Koushik was handed the no objection certificate (NOC) by Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel.
A late bloomer who gave up a corporate job to pursue a career in cricket, Koushik has featured in 23 first-class matches, claiming 93 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 2.13.
Koushik, who relies more on accuracy and less on pace, was ignored a few years ago, but made a comeback to become an integral part of the team.
Last season, with regulars Prasidh Krishna and Vidwath Kaverappa unavailable, and Vyshak Vijaykumar picking up an injury midway through the season, Koushik showed admirable character to shoulder responsibility in all formats.
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He banked on his strengths — consistency and ability to get movement in the air and off the pitch.
Speaking to TOI about his decision to switch allegiance, the joint highest wicket-taker (18 scalps) in Karnataka's Vijay Hazare Trophy win last season, said: "I'm 32, and for the past couple of months I've been thinking about my future. I wanted to leave my home state on a high. I know I have a few good years of cricket left in me and felt the time was ripe for me to make way for youngsters in Karnataka."
While he said he would miss his home turf, Koushik has pegged the call as a practical rather than an emotional one.
"I've been a part of Karnataka teams that have won the Vijay Hazare and Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 trophies, but I wish I could have helped Karnataka win the Ranji Trophy as well."
Koushik, who made his limited opportunities count, leaves behind big shoes for youngsters like Abhilash Shetty and Vidhyadhar Patel to fill.
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