The Sun Rises in Idukki: Sachin Baby’s Triumphant Return to IPL Journey - A Story of Self-Belief, Perseverance and Discipline | Exclusive

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Kerala has been making a prominent mark in the Indian cricket ecosystem. God's own country, which it really is, has a plethora of cricketing talent across Kasargod to Kollam, and right in the middle of the state, the Idukki-born Sachin Baby is ready to raise the temperature in the IPL 2025.

At the IPL 2025 auction, one of the most heartwarming stories unfolded when Sachin Baby was picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). The 35-year-old is back in the IPL after a two-year hiatus, and he has worked extremely hard for it. The reward for his relentless effort and belief in himself finally arrived, as the skipper of the Kerala Ranji team will be honing the Orange Army colours.

After his selection, MyKhel had a chance to talk with Sachin for an exclusive interview, and the player shared his journey, preparation, and reflections on being signed by SRH. Here is a complete transcript of the interview-

The Mantra behind Fitness

If anyone is following the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy this season, one can tune into the Kerala matches and the fastest player is Sachin Baby. Even at the 'Level 35' (Sachin loves to call his age as Level), he is as agile as the youngsters. When asked about his exceptional fitness, which has kept him competitive even at 35, Sachin credited his roots in Kerala, particularly his hometown in Idukki, which is often known for its hill stations Vagamon and Munnar.

"Actually, I am from Kerala, and athleticism is already in our blood. If you see cricketers from Kerala, they are very athletic. I am from Idukki, a forest area, where I used to walk, climb, and roam around. That fitness is natural to me."

Sachin also highlighted the importance of focused fitness routines to extend his career.

"At 35, I need to be really careful about the food I eat, my gym sessions, and my running. I know with my current fitness, I can play for one or two more years. But if I want to play for another five to six years, I need to make sacrifices and work hard every day."

IPL 2025 Auction Rollercoaster: An Emotional Journey

Sachin Baby had previously played for SRH in 2018, followed by stints with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and other teams. However, going unsold in several IPL auctions had tested his patience and resolve. And the player said he was emotional after SRH raised the paddle for him.

"When you get unsold, it's not a good feeling. You feel very low. But I always told myself, 'One day my time will come.' All I could control was working hard day in and day out. This season, I prepared a lot, starting with the Kerala Cricket League in May. It paid off, and when SRH bid for me, I was very happy and a little emotional too."

Sachin admitted that he had felt disappointed during the auction process, especially when his name wasn't called initially.

"My number was 193, but when they skipped from 190 to 200, then 215, I thought my chance was gone. But in the end, my name came up, and I was thrilled when SRH picked me."

Returning to SRH felt like a homecoming for Sachin, given his fond memories of the franchise from his earlier stint.

"I know this franchise well. I had a great time with VVS Laxman sir, Muttiah Muralitharan sir, and Tom Moody in 2018. I'm really excited to be back and contribute to the team."

I am ready to do whatever job team gives me: Sachin

Despite his age, Sachin brings versatility and flexibility to any team he represents. Having batted at various positions for Kerala, he is prepared to take on any role SRH assigns him.

"I have batted everywhere - from opening the innings to number six. I am ready to do whatever job the team management gives me. As a cricketer, I've learned that you have to be flexible and adapt your game plans to the team's needs."

A Message of Motivation for Young Kerala Cricketers

Sachin's journey serves as an inspiration for young players, particularly those from Kerala. Reflecting on the challenges of going unsold at auctions and motivating his younger teammates, Sachin emphasized the value of persistence, but confirmed that their time shall also arrive.

"I've been through this phase many times. I've played five IPL seasons, but I've also gone unsold five or six times. I know how it feels, especially for youngsters. But I always tell them, if something is meant for you, it will happen. Just focus on what you can control - perform, score runs, take wickets, and you will have to knock on the door."

The veteran also had a strong message for the upcoming generation. Baby stresses the importance of persistence and believes hard work shall always bear fruits.

"They are also working hard. They are also doing really well. And their time will also come. So, the only thing is that we should not give up. No matter what, keep doing the things that you love. That is cricket. Cricket is your bread and butter. So, you have to keep on doing it. And one day, that door will open for you," Sachin shared his message for the youngsters of Kerala.

Kerala's Campaign in SMAT and Sanju Samson

Sachin also spoke about Kerala's campaign in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he has been playing alongside stars like Sanju Samson. The team has shown promise, and despite a recent loss, the mood in the camp remains positive.

"We believe in every player in this team. We are not just dependent on Sanju Samson. Everyone is a match-winner. That was the message that the coach and the captain. Even after our first loss of the season, the message from the coach was clear: celebrate the loss. We've celebrated wins, so why not losses? It's about staying positive and learning from every experience."

Sachin Baby's story is a reminder that age is just a number (in his case, Level) when it comes to pursuing your dreams. His dedication to fitness, adaptability, and unrelenting belief in himself have brought him back into the IPL fold.

As he resumes his unfinished journey with Sunrisers Hyderabad, the Kerala veteran looks set to make the most of the adventure. For Sachin Baby, the door has opened again and the sun has finally risen - and he is ready to make the most of this opportunity.