We need support and love from Guwahati: Robin Uthappa

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: Former member of Team India Robin Uthappa is in Guwahati to attend the trial camp of his new IPL outfit, Rajasthan Royals, which is going on at the ACA Stadium, Barsapara. In an exclusive interview with The Sentinel, the hard hitting batsman supported Rajasthan Royals decision to bring IPL matches to Guwahati and also spoke on other matters of the League involving him. Here is the excerpt.

The Sentinel (TS): How do you see Guwahati as one of the home venue of Rajasthan Royals?

Uthappa: Oh! Guwahati is a beautiful venue and I am very happy to be here and be a part of the Rajasthan Royals family. I feel cricket should be played in every part of the country and it’s nice to see the IPL coming to this enchanting city of India. People here will get the opportunity to see a lot of fun.

(TS): What message will you like to pass to the local cricket fans?

Uthappa: Guwahati is not a new venue for me. It will be the second outing at the ACA stadium, Barsapara. Earlier, I played one Ranji Trophy tie here in 2015. We need support, love and positive energy from the local cricket fans. I believe with their backing we will be able to win both our matches here.

(TS): You will feature in Rajasthan Royals this season. Please share your plans for the new team?

Uthappa: Rajasthan Royals is a very formidable side and I am happy to be the part of it. I am really looking forward and will try to do my best for the team.

(TS): You have already played 177 matches in IPL. How will you describe your journey in the competition?

Uthappa: I should say it’s a very good league where I have had a reasonable amount of success. I always go with one goal and it is to do well and win more championship as at the end of the day, all that matters is how many titles you win. The goal will remain same this time too.

(TS): Your thought on role of IPL in present day Indian cricket.

Uthappa: I feel IPL is a big boon to our country. It makes a very positive impact on cricketers as well as other games too. If you see, you will notice that other sports have taken a leaf out of IPL and started their own leagues, which is a very positive thing.

(TS): Your take on promising cricketer of Assam Riyan Parag who will be your teammate this time.

Uthappa: Riyan is a very exciting young star. Last time I had seen him play against KKR. The cricketer has a lot of potential. A little bit of hard work and luck can take him to the next level.

(TS): Your most memorable moment in IPL !

Robin Uthappa: Obviously it’s 2014. We won the title that season and I also bagged the Orange Cap. Undoubtedly, the best moment for me in IPL.

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