Can't Give It All If You Are Thinking Of Price Tag: CSK's Krishnappa Gowtham

Getting picked for Rs.9.2 crore by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the most expensive Indian player in IPL mini-auction left off-spin bowling all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham shivering, but he was also hap

"I worked on the mental side. Maybe I used to get too desperate too easily. Once I started recreating myself, I understood what it takes for you to be a good cricketer or smart cricketer. It did help me in that case," he says about his comeback to the Karnataka Ranji side.

The dip came again, this time in the IPL, after a good performance in the 2018 edition. He was below par in 2019 and then got to play just two matches last year.

"I was a bit upset at not getting opportunities last year. At the same time, it was the team's call; not in my control. We have to respect the decision the franchise and team management makes. I learned a lot of things with Anil [Kumble], sir. I didn't play much, but we can't think about the past. I will look forward and move ahead," he said.

Gowtham feels his ability to bowl in the power-play and his power-packed hitting towards the end of the innings probably clinched the deal. "I can be the one who can bowl for you in the power-play and can get quick 20-30 runs. Maybe that is something they were looking at," he said.

Gowtham pointed out that playing with Dhoni is a 'blessing'. And CSK is hoping that Dhoni grooms Gowtham well.

"We needed an Indian off-spinner who can also bat and provide power-hitting in the end. I thought Gowtham has that ability. We have analyzed his batting and bowling abilities, we feel he will come good with CSK. We have seen him in IPL, he has done well, including against us for Rajasthan Royals."

"It was also about intuition. We have to get the best out of him. We have the confidence that [captain] Dhoni has the capacity to get the best out of him," said CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan.

Gowtham believes he has been lucky to have a very supportive family. His father Krishnappa was a kabaddi player for Karnataka and pressed on the need of having a strong body right from the start.

"Kabaddi players are well-built. I was never a very, very well-built guy. I was a very, very lean guy. Dad always used to scold me; always used to make sure that I have a good intake of proteins, meat, etc. He was very strict, forced me to eat healthy food and in good quantities. It helped me," said the right-handed batsman.

"Sporting background helped. In my house, they were supportive. They made sure that I never missed practice sessions. The discipline came from there. They constantly made sure I was able to give my best. I am very grateful and blessed to have a family like that."