‘Haven’t been home for 9 years’ - Mumbai spinner Kumar Kartikeya shares heartfelt story

The most successful team in the history of the Indian T20 League 2022, Mumbai registered its first win in the ongoing season on Saturday. Rohit Sharma and Co. beat Rajasthan by 5 wickets to earn their first points in the tournament.

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Mumbai bowled well to restrict Rajasthan to 158 runs in the first innings. Later, Rohit Sharma and Co. chased down the score in 19.1 overs. Suryakumar Yadav, once again, played a stellar knock with the bat and, this time around, his team won the match as well.

However, another guy who made grabbed headlines on Saturday was debutant Kumar Kartikeya. Playing his very first game, the left-arm spinner impressed one with all with his bowling exploits. The 24-year old gave away just 19 runs in his four-over spell and also picked the important wicket of Sanju Samson.

For the unversed, Kartikeya wasn’t part of the squad earlier. He was, recently, signed as a replacement for Arshad Khan. After dishing out an impressive performance with the ball, the left-arm spinner had a word with the commentators and stated that he would be happy if he people tag him as a ‘mystery bowler’.

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“I am a mystery bowler. I feel good. When I found out I was playing I was a little nervous. But I planned overnight for every batter. I was trying to bowl it on the pads to Samson. I got a lot of confidence when Sachin sir advised me,” he said during the innings break.

The 24-year-old hails from a very humble background. He also revealed that he hasn’t visited his hometown for last 9 years.

I haven’t been home for 9 years. I’d decided to return home only when I achieve something in life. My mom and dad called me frequently, but I was committed. Now finally I’ll return home after the IPL,” Kartikeya told Dainik Jagran.

Mumbai are slated to play their next match against Gujarat on Friday at Brabourne Stadium.