Kolkata Knight Riders a family to me: Sunil Narine
West Indian spinner Sunil Narine expressed his love for the Indian Premier League franchise Kolkata Knight Riders. Narine, who turned 32 on Tuesday, said he would like to play for KKR in future as well. The mystery spinner has been associated with KKR since 2012 and also represented Trinbago Knight Riders in CPL, a franchise owned by KKR's parent company. Here is more.
"Any tournament around the globe where Knight Riders have a team, I would want to be a part of it. It is not about the money or the friendships, it's like a family to me," Narine said on the Twitter handle of KKR.
Narine also lavished praised on the Indian culture, terming India his second home. "The way they welcome you in India, with arms wide open. It's like they already know you as a human being. They try to make you comfortable. Every year, when I am leaving for India (for the IPL), it's like I am leaving for my second home," he stated.
Sunil Narine made his IPL debut for KKR in 2012. He was the second highest wicket-taker that season with 24 wickets from 15 matches at 13.50. The Caribbean bowler, who helped KKR clinch the title that season, made waves by deceiving the greatest batsmen in following seasons. He also took 21 wickets in the 2014 season as KKR reclaimed the title.
Overall, Narine has snapped up 122 wickets from 110 matches at an incredible average of 23.31. He also owns 41 scalps for Tringbago Knight Riders at 24.43. His batting prowess has also soared in the past few seasons.
Narine feels competing in IPL is closest to playing in home conditions. He also reiterated the ongoing lockdown is making him miss the extravaganza of IPL. "The closest thing to feeling at home playing in the CPL is the IPL. I am missing the excitement of the IPL, the fans, the loved ones watching you perform," he said.
