Mysore/Mysuru: City’s Gautham Sagar, an all-rounder who has played in Karnataka Premier League (KPL) and is a BBA student of Sapient College in Mysuru, speaking to ‘SOM’ yesterday, said: “As far as I know, to shine the ball, sweat is the only alternative we have for saliva. We have to adapt to this new decision and play. It will definitely take time as applying saliva has come as a habit to shine the ball till now.” 

Talking about cricketing activities, the aspiring cricketer said: “We do not have gym. Otherwise, we make sure we practice for a short duration whenever possible. Local cricket has not been affected much. By now, Bengaluru matches were supposed to start but now Mysuru league matches are still pending. Still three tournaments of this season are yet to complete.”

“Skipping cricket for a year will definitely make difference in our cricketing career as the tournaments are held in age categories. I, personally, have two years to play in U-23 category and if matches are not held this year, I will be losing a year of opportunity. I wish to play more cricket but we have to contain the pandemic and that has to be given priority now. However, it is okay if the cricketing activities are taken up only in COVID-19 Green Zone. But inviting Bengaluru players here would be risky to us and even it is difficult for them too to come and play here. As of now, we can play within Mysuru and inviting Bengaluru players is not necessary, is what I feel,” he added.