Alleppey Ripples are gearing up for the new Kerala Cricket League (KCL) season with a clear objective – to mount a serious challenge for the championship.
After learning from the shortcomings of the previous campaigns, Ripples have strengthened their squad across departments, bringing together established performers and promising young cricketers.
Former Kerala player Nikhilesh Surendran will serve as the head coach, while experienced batter Sachin Baby has been handed the captaincy. Baby brings considerable leadership experience to the side, having guided Kollam Sailors to two KCL finals and one championship triumph.
The veteran batter will also be expected to play a key role at the top of the order. Baby was the leading run-scorer in the inaugural KCL season, registering two centuries, and again finished among the top 10 run-getters in the second edition. This season, he will have the support of explosive wicketkeeper-batter Mohammed Azharuddeen and experienced all-rounder Jalaj Saxena, giving Ripples greater depth and firepower in the batting department.
One of the biggest additions to the squad is Sibin Gireesh, who was signed for a record ₹11.80 lakh. Gireesh has been in impressive touch in recent competitions, including the NSK Trophy, and will be one of the players to watch this season. Abhijith Praveen is another important all-round option after making a strong impact during the previous domestic campaign.
Ripples have also assembled a versatile group of players capable of contributing in multiple areas. Akshay T K, Amalraj R, Ashiq Ali, Vinil T S and Sreeroop M P add further flexibility to the squad. Ashiq, in particular, arrives with a strong reputation after producing notable performances with both bat and ball in the NSK Trophy.
The bowling attack is another area where Ripples possess plenty of experience. Saxena claimed 12 wickets last season and will be a key figure in the spin department. In the pace attack, Ajay Ghosh N S stands out after taking 13 wickets last season. His ability to bowl effectively during both the powerplay and death overs could prove crucial.
Ajith Raj, Akhildev and Ajinas K will provide further options with the ball as Ripples look to build a disciplined attack capable of controlling scoring while regularly taking wickets.
With experience at the top, several quality all-rounders and a promising group of younger players, Alleppey Ripples appear better equipped for a sustained KCL campaign. Their challenge will be to convert that squad depth into consistent performances when the season begins.
Alleppey Ripples Coaching & Support Staff
Head Coach: Nikhilesh Surendran
Assistant Coaches: K S Monish, Farzeen Ahmed
Performance Analyst: Srivalsan P B
Fielding Coach: Gabriel Ben Kurian
Strength & Conditioning Coach: K Vineeth Kumar
Team Physio: Askar P V
Masseur: Santhosh P Chacko
Throwball Specialist: Nandakumar K A
Team Manager: Abhiram Hrithvik
Alleppey Ripples Squad
Sachin Baby, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Jalaj Saxena, Sibin Gireesh, Abhijith Praveen, Akshay TK, Vinil TS, Akash Pilla, Sreeroop MP, Arun KA, Akhildev, Ajnas K, Ashiq Ali, Amalraj R, Ajay Ghosh NS, Ajith Raj.