Ranji Trophy | Karnataka’s Koushik reaps rich rewards with ‘keep it simple’ mantra

Prolific: Koushik took 18 wickets at an economy of 4.52 in the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy.
| Photo Credit: SUDHAKARA JAIN

V. Koushik is Karnataka cricket’s Mr. Consistent – both in the way he bowls and the performances he produces.

The 32-year-old sticks to an unrelenting and unwavering off-stump line, gives away very few runs (economy rate of 3.72 in List A and 7.70 in T20s) and accounts for a bagful of wickets.

In the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy triumph, the pacer snared 18 batters at an economy of 4.52, a figure made more impressive by the fact that Karnataka conceded more than 300 thrice.

In fact, he returned with 18 wickets apiece in each of the two previous Hazare Trophy campaigns, at 3.30 runs per over in 2023-24 and at 2.70 in 2022-23.

“I just keep it simple and that’s my strength,” Koushik said ahead of the Ranji Trophy match against Punjab starting Thursday. “Like how the bowling coaches usually tell: hit the top of off-stump. I keep to that length and make most of the conditions.

“In India, if you are playing in early winter, there will be some help and I try to capitalise. My off-season work ethic is also pretty good, whether I am bowling in the nets or anywhere. I just stick to that length and make the ball talk.”

Koushik swears by this method across formats. His First Class bowling average after 21 matches and 87 wickets is an impressive 17.25, and another fine effort versus Punjab – a side against which he took a career-best seven for 41 this time last year – will be a godsend for Karnataka.

“For me, it remains the same [in any format]. I concentrate more on the economy side. If a wicket comes, it will be a bonus.”

Tinge of disappointment

There is a tinge of disappointment in Koushik that he has never featured in the IPL or come close to National-team selection. But that hasn’t stopped him from giving it all for Karnataka.

“It [selection] is not in my hands. More than anything, I love the sport. The joy of playing every day motivates me to perform. That is what is pushing me. But I have been consistently performing, knocking on the doors and asking the question: am I not good enough?”