Uthappa exits Karnataka, Kerala ready to welcome him

Thiruvananthapuram: After representing Karnataka state cricket team for 15 years, India player Robin Uthappa is high on the radar of the Kerala Cricket Association which is all set to sign him, according to a top official.

Speaking to IANS, KCA secretary Jayesh George said they have already expressed their desire to sign up the seasoned campaigner.

"He has exited from Karnataka and we have also written to him with our offer to accept him. What we understand is that at the moment he is out of the country. Once he is back, we expect to hear from him. We are confident that he will play for Kerala very soon," George said.

Uthappa's connection with Kerala is that his mother hails from here while his father is from Coorg, the Karnataka hill station that borders Irrity in Kannur district.

George added that Jalat Saxena, who played for Kerala in the previous season, will continue this season also.

Incidentally, KCA has roped in former Australia batsman Dav Whatmore, a hugely successful coach who had stints with four international teams and will be with the state team for six months before leaving for other commitments.