Thiruvananthapuram: With the new season of the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) fast approaching, Alleppey Ripples have mounted an intensive campaign as they set their sights firmly on the championship title. The Ripples have assembled a well-balanced squad for the upcoming tournament, blending seasoned domestic campaigners like Sachin Baby, Mohammed Azharuddeen, and Jalaj Saxena with a vibrant contingent of emerging local talent.

Under the guidance of head coach Nikhilesh Surendran—a former Kerala state player—Alleppey are positioning themselves to present a formidable challenge to their league rivals.

Sachin Baby to Lead the Charge

Leading Alleppey this season is the experienced Sachin Baby, who previously captained Kollam Sailors to two final appearances, securing one title. Renowned for his tactical acumen and consistency with the bat, Baby’s leadership is expected to prove invaluable to the franchise.

Top-order inconsistency severely hampered the Ripples' performance in previous campaigns—an issue the management believes they have rectified with a refreshed, aggressive batting lineup. Baby, who finished as the top run-scorer in the inaugural KCL season with two centuries and maintained a top-10 position in the second season, will form the backbone of the batting unit. With power-hitter Mohammed Azharuddeen and veteran all-rounder Jalaj Saxena joining him, Alleppey boast significantly enhanced fire-power in the middle overs.

Record Investment in All-Round Talent

A defining feature of the current Ripples squad is its depth in all-rounders. The roster includes:

  • Sibin Gireesh: Acquired for a record sum of ₹11.80 lakh, Gireesh arrives on the back of impressive recent form, notably in the NSK Trophy.

  • Abijith Praveen: A standout performer across the previous domestic season, Praveen brings crucial stability to the middle order and bowling attack.

  • Ashiq Ali: Another high-impact player to watch, having delivered strong performances with both bat and ball in the NSK Trophy.

The squad is further bolstered by versatile contributors including Akshay T. K., Amalraj, Vinil T. S., and Sreeroop M. P.

Disciplined and Experienced Bowling Attack

Alleppey have assembled a disciplined bowling attack capable of taking wickets while keeping the run rate under control. Key figures include:

  • Jalaj Saxena: The veteran spinner took 12 wickets last season, and his vast domestic experience will be vital during pressure situations.

  • Ajayaghosh N. S.: The standout pace bowler claimed 13 wickets last term and is trusted to deliver accuracy both in the powerplay and during the death overs.

  • Support Unit: The attack is rounded out by Ajith Raj, Akhildev, and K. Ajnas, offering the captain varied tactical options.

Having addressed previous tactical shortfalls with meticulous planning across every department, the franchise enters the campaign with high expectations from fans and analysts alike.

Coaching Staff & Franchise Leadership

  • Head Coach: Nikhilesh Surendran

  • Assistant Coaches: K. S. Monish, Farzeen Ahamed

  • Support Staff: Srivathsan P. B. (Performance Analyst), Gabriel Ben Kurian (Fielding Coach), K. Vineeth Kumar (Strength & Conditioning Coach), Askar P. V. (Physio), Santhosh P. Chacko (Masseur), Nandakumar K. A. (Throwball Specialist), Abhiram Hrithwik (Team Manager).

  • Franchise Owners: T. S. Kaladharan, Devika Kaladharan, Krishna Kaladharan, and Raphael Thomas.

Full Squad

Alleppey Ripples: Sachin Baby (C), Mohammed Azharuddeen, Jalaj Saxena, Sibin Gireesh, Abhijith Praveen, Akshay T. K., Vinil T. S., Akash Pillai, Sreeroop M. P., Arun K. A., Akhildev, Ajnas K., Ashiq Ali, Amalraj R., Ajayaghosh N. S., Ajith Raj.