Test cricket remains Badri’s prime target

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By his own high standards, S. Badrinath did not enjoy a good season in the recently concluded Ranji Trophy.

At a time when critics are baying for blood and rooting for a change in the Indian middle-order, Badri would have definitely fancied his chances to add to his two Test caps.

The former India A skipper could not have hurt his shoulder at a more critical moment. The injury that occurred during the Challenger Trophy ensured Badri missed the first three games for TN. For a player who has been the epitome of consistency for his state side, Badri managed only 292 runs at an average of 36.50 from six matches.

The figures do not showcase Badri’s will to succeed in a season where he badly wanted to put an end to TN’s Ranji demons. “Winning the Ranji is one of my biggest goals, a dream that has been on for a long long time. I am disappointed but I am sure we will come back stronger next year. This team has worked hard and I sincerely feel we deserve the title,” said Badri.

At 30, the chances of returning to the Indian dressing room are growing bleaker by the day but Badri is not the one to be disheartened. “It all depends on my fitness and the hunger I maintain. I want to be part of the Indian side and play Test cricket. I don’t think age can be a criterion. As long as I keep performing I should stand a chance of making it again,” said a confident Badri.

The selectors have not given Badri his due. There have been other batsmen who poses a record similar or in cases even better but Badri’s longevity is striking. For the last five seasons, Badri has done exceedingly well in the Ranji Trophy and has also looked his part when touring with the India A side.

Badri is not the most pleasing batsman to watch nor is he the best ball striker around. But what he brings to the crease is solidity. In an era where strike rate has taken over ability to occupy crease, Badri is bound to feel left out. At the same time his measured success in the IPL is a point in case of the batsman willing to move out of his comfort zone in order to contribute to the cause of the team.

“I want to do something special. Similar to what VVS Laxman achieved in 1999-00. I must in turn help the team win as well,” Badri had said prior to the 2010-11 season and lived up to it by finishing as the top run getter in the national championship. No one would have been hurt more after the final against Rajasthan than Badri.

For a player who has been repeatedly shunned by the selectors the way he has kept his motivation going is a lesson to all youngsters. Badri and his Ranji dream continues to burn and knowing his methods he is not going to let that easy.