Bengaluru: Harish Naik always thought he would make his name in cricket. A dream, that a billion share but only a few are able to achieve. It wasn’t in Naik’s destiny to become a cricketer.
But he did make a name for himself in another arena. The Bhatkal-born lad’s life changed when he was picked up by Bengaluru Bulls for Rs 10 lakh during the auction last season. They had scouted him while he was representing Mysore bank in a tournament in Pune.
While he failed to make an impact in the previous season, it was nonetheless the boost, both financial and mental, that the 19-year-old SAI trainee needed.
“It was a massive boost for me and my family financially. I cleared a lot of loans with that money and it was a great help for my family. My father is a daily wage labourer and my mother is a homemaker. I have an elder sister who is unmarried. Two uncles live with us,” remarked Naik.
“I have made a name for myself because of this sport. There is a lot of respect and goodwill among people in my district. I hope to be able to show my skills this time around in the PKL,” added the raider.
Now, a year after the auction it is not just the player, but the team, that is excited for the teenager to reach for the proverbial brass ring.
“I am confident that if Harish gets a chance, he will show his talent. He was in the team last year but we were not clear as to how to use his skills. This time, with a longer league, he will get opportunities,” stressed Bulls captain Rohit Kumar earmarking him as one to look out for.
The Bulls, who will be playing their home matches in Nagpur, start their campaign against Telugu Titans on July 30.
