From Kerala to IPL: Abdul Bazith on Journey, Ambitions, Sanju Samson and More | Exclusive

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Abdul Bazith, a talented cricketer from Kerala, has shown remarkable skill in both batting and bowling, making a name for himself.

A very promising talent who has also been part of the Rajasthan Royals setup is looking to make progress through the various hurdles of Indian cricket. After a fantastic outing in the Kerala Cricket League, Abdul Bazith (also spelt as Abdul Basith) was called up to the camp for the Kerala Ranji team, where MyKhel had a chance to speak with him in an exclusive interview.

The hard-hitting batter, who also is equally venomous with off-spin, spoke on an array of things, traversing his journey as a cricketer, the unique and precious experiences and the upcoming ambitions.

Sachin Tendulkar inspired Bazith's Journey

His cricket odyssey took off in the seventh grade, influenced by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar and his practice sessions near his school. Local coaches quickly spotted Bazith's potential, prompting him to join the local club and the State Academy in Thevara, nurturing his all-round capabilities. But it all started for him in school where Bazith's enthusiasm caught the eyes.

"After seeing Sachin Tendulkar sir's match, I wished to play cricket. In school, I used to stand near our cricket coaches - Pradeep Sir and Umesh Sir. So I would reach in the morning and stand near their game and everything and in between the break, in his break, he would put some gadgets for me and that's how I started my cricket. After that, seeing my interest, he just asked to bring my father and he just came and sir told him that you need to make him practice in any club or something."

Family wanted to focus on Academics

Tripunithura Cricket Club was the place where Bazith started his game, which later got further nourished at the State Academy in Thevara. Supported by a family that treasures education as much as cricket, Bazith has successfully balanced his aspirations with a fulfilling personal life. The player says the financial status was not affluent which made him concentrate both on his studies and the game.

"My family was not that much financially strong. I had to make sure that my studies were not going badly. So, if the studies go bad. I have to, it will be mostly pressure for me to drop cricket. So, I continue my studies with my cricket."

Kerala Cricket League Experience

Born in Ernakulam, Bazith's early exposure to cricket, combined with his natural talent, set the foundation for his career. He emerged as a formidable player, especially noted for picking up 13 wickets in the inaugural KCL tournament, showcasing his prowess as a bowler despite his preference for batting. When speaking on that, Bazith says he wants to work further on his bowling after the early success. Bazith represented Trivandrum Royals and says the experience was excellent for him.

"Mainly, I really like batting but after getting 13 wickets, I will work a little bit more on my bowling also. I know that if I'm an all-rounder, I have to do with my bat and ball if the team needs it."

IPL with Rajasthan Royals and Sanju Samson

Bazith's growth under the captaincy of Sanju Samson has been a defining phase of his career, offering him invaluable experience and insights. He cherishes the relationship with Samson, who he regards as a supportive "Chetta" or elder brother, highlighting the nurturing environment within the squad.

The player says that even during his early days with Kerala, it was Sanju who gave the youngster clarity on his role, while the likes of Raiphi Gomez (former Kerala cricketer) helped him immensely as well. And luckily for Bazith, his debut IPL experience came under Sanju Samson at the Rajasthan Royals. The Kerala all-rounder was part of the Royals set-up in 2023. Though he only played a single match for them, the player is elated for the experience.

"The main thing was I am really happy that I got my first contract under Sanju Bhai. So, I am really happy for that and because he is the best captain I played under and it is very comfortable to play under him. We always get clarity on what we have to do in the centre. So, it is a pleasure for me to get that opportunity. The IPL was a very pleasant experience. We are always having that mindset to get down there and perform in IPL and then only we can go to the next level."

Ravichandran Ashwin experience

The player was released in 2024 and says he misses the practice sessions with Zubin Bharucha, who works as the team director at Rajasthan Royals. Although he wished for more interactions with seasoned players like Ravichandran Ashwin, Bazith appreciates the exposure and learning opportunities the IPL stint provided.

"Yes, I had a talk with him [Ashwin] and I didn't get a lot of opportunity to talk with him and work with him. So, I just had a couple of talks and that's it," says Bazith.

Ambitions and Focus

At the age of 25 (to be 26 on October 9), Bazith's ambition is unwavering. He aims to excel in the upcoming Ranji season under the guidance of new coach Amay Khurasiya and has his sights set on joining the Kerala Ranji team. Although the Ernakulam-born has played T20 and List A matches for Kerala, the elusive Ranji debut is yet to arrive. And the player believes in focusing on his performance and improvement, rather than being burdened by the expectations of selection.

"I just focus on the process which I had to do to get to the numbers. So, I don't think about the last result. I always focus on the process which I have to do to win the team. I don't want to think about that too much because it always makes pressure. It diverts the main focus. You have to focus on our domestic season. That's the main thing."

The impact of Sanju Samson on Kerala Cricketers

Although Kerala is not a state which has produced many international cricketers, the most recent prodigy Sanju Samson has been making a strong mark. Despite his strong demeanour on the field, Sanju Samson is an extremely jolly and fun-loving person, and the entire Kerala base adores him. And Abdul, who has seen Samson from close proximities, asserts the role Samson plays for all the aspiring Kerala cricketers.

"Sanju Bhai is like Chetta for me. He is always an elder brother. If I have doubts or anything, I can call him and I can ask him what I have to do. He is always there for everyone, not just for me. For everyone who is playing for Kerala and other junior guys also, he is always there. He is always a Chetta. He will always take care of the youngsters and the funny guy that he is. On the ground, he is something else. And when he speaks, he is like a different level."

Beyond cricket, Bazith finds joy in exploring Kerala's landscapes, enjoying its diverse culture, and relaxing to the tunes of KK and Arjit Singh. The player is determined to play in the Ranji Trophy this upcoming season, and is hoping that his talent and performances will speak for themselves.

As he continues to strive for excellence, Bazith remains a promising figure in Indian cricket. The Kerala player has taken the right path so far, and the important thing is to continue in the right direction and pursue greater success.