I was in trance when Sachin Tendulkar called my name: Basil Thampi

Kerala pacer Basil Thampi has been one of the top finds of the 10th edition of the Indian Premier League. Playing for the Gujarat Lions, Thampi managed to catch the attention of the cricket pundits with his accurate yorkers this season. He was awarded the Emerging Player of the Season award after the conclusion of the tournament this year. Needless to say, he was on cloud nine after having won that award.

As per the quotes in Times of India, Basil Thampi thanked all the ones who helped him in his journey thus far. He noted that he felt he was in a wonderland after having got the honor. He fell short on words to express his happiness. He believes that the experience he gained in the tournament this year will help him evolve as a much better player in the years to come.

“I am almost feeling like ‘Basil in wonderland’. Can’t just explain how happy I am. I know many people have appreciated my performances in IPL and they have voted for me. I am thankful to them and it is their love and prayers that have helped me in getting this award. It’s not the money but it’s the experience of playing such a big tournament that will help me in my career,” quoted Basil Thampi.

Words from the master

Thampi became the second player from Kerala to have won the coveted Emerging Player of the Tournament after Sanju Samson bagged it in the year 2013. Recalling the moment, Thampi quipped that he was in trance mode when Sachin Tendulkar called his name for the trophy. He revealed that Sachin asked him to work harder and continue to work better. He added that there are a lot of areas where he needs to improve on and will be working on them right away.

“He called out my name and I was in a trance. He said he has been following my performances and has got great expectations from me. He also asked me to work hard and told me that there is no shortcut to success. With such words of encouragement coming in from Sachin, I want to live up to his expectations,” said Basil Thampi.

“I have to keep working at my bowling. There are lots of areas where I can improve. Hopefully, the experience and exposure of IPL will make me a better bowler,” he conceded.