Sachin Baby Confident As Kerala Prepares For Challenging Ranji Trophy Match Against Haryana

Sachin Baby, the captain of Kerala's cricket team, is optimistic about their upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Haryana. This match marks the end of the first half of their Ranji season. Haryana currently leads Group B in the points table.

Kerala has shown impressive form this season, securing second place with 15 points from four matches. They achieved victories over Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, while rain affected their games against Karnataka and Bengal, resulting in draws without completing the first innings.

As they prepare to face Haryana in Rohtak, Sachin Baby emphasises maintaining their positive momentum. In an exclusive interview with MyKhel, he highlighted the team's collective effort and immediate goals for the season.

"From the start of the season, we are playing some good cricket. We want to continue that momentum because everybody is contributing to the team. Whatever situation we put up, everybody is responding to it really well," he stated.

Jalaj Saxena has been instrumental in Kerala's success this season. The off-break bowler has taken 19 wickets in four matches and recently reached his 400th wicket milestone in Ranji Trophy. Sachin Baby praised Saxena's contributions but stressed that the team doesn't rely solely on one or two players.

"Jalaj, you don't need anything to mention him. Because he has been doing really well for the last couple of years for us. He has been a big asset for the Kerala side. But this team is not dependent on one person or two. We are expecting everyone to perform well," he added.

Upcoming Challenges and IPL Auction

The IPL mega auction is approaching, and while players discuss it among themselves, their primary focus remains on upcoming domestic matches like the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a major T20 tournament starting soon after.

"Yeah, that's a natural thing that is coming up [IPL 2025 auction]. Everybody wants to play in the IPL. But right now, we have a task in our hands. We have matches coming up. And that [IPL auction] is not in our control. If it is meant to be, it will happen. Our duty is to perform score runs and put pressure on the franchise," Sachin explained.

Confidence from Past Encounters

The upcoming match against Haryana poses a significant challenge for Kerala as they face a strong opponent. However, Sachin draws confidence from past encounters and their current form.

"We are playing some good cricket. And we are currently placed second. We have the confidence that we beat Haryana the last time when we played. And everybody is in a very good touch with the bat and the ball," Sachin concluded.