S Sreesanth named in Kerala’s probables’ list for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

S Sreesanth edged closer to a return of competitive cricket after being named in the probables list for Kerala in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. If the 37-year-old does appear in the tournament, it will be his first competitive cricket match since his ban from the game for involving in spot-fixing during the Indian Premier League 2013.

The ban was handed out in 2013 for spot-fixing by using signals on-field. Appearing for Rajasthan Royals (RR), the pacer and World Cup winner with India was banned along with fellow RR bowlers Ankeet Chavan and Ajit Chandila. While initially a life ban was handed out, following a lengthy process of appeals, the same was reduced to 7 years. After the end of the ban, the 37-year-old had stated that he wishes to return to competitive cricketing action again.

Sanju Samson, Robin Uthappa among probables

In the probables list announced today by Kerala which consisted of 26 players, other well-known players like Sanju Samson, Sachin Baby, Jalaj Saxena, Robin Uthaapa and Basil Thampi were also included. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy will begin on January 2 and there will be a preparatory camp from December 20 to 30 in Kerala after being delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

All eyes will be on Sreesanth and if he is named in the final squad, this could be the perfect platform for redemption and a roaring return to the game of cricket for the pacer who was once considered a potential mainstay in the Indian side.

Also Read: Yuvraj Singh named in Punjab’s probables’ list for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy