Smaran hits century on Karnataka captaincy debut and says ‘I am just staying in the present’

R. Smaran, 23, scored an excellent, back-to-the-wall century on his captaincy debut for Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy opener against Andhra at Mulapadu on Sunday and said, "I am just staying in the present."

Over the last two weeks Smaran has been thrust into a flurry of commitments: he was named Karnataka skipper in Devdutt Padikkal’s absence for the Ranji opener, delivered a match-winning hand for Rest of India in the Irani Cup, and was subsequently drafted into the India-A squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand.

Asked how he was processing the rapid run of events, Smaran said: "Even if there is time to process, I don’t want to think much of it. Just taking it as it comes and not keeping any expectations of playing or reaching any particular level. I am just staying in the present." The article described his temperament as level-headed amid pressure in Indian domestic cricket.

Commenting on the captaincy, Smaran said: "It’s a huge privilege and honour to lead Karnataka," and added: "There are so many stalwarts who have led Karnataka to a lot of victories. Obviously, our coach Vinay Kumar... We don’t have to go far for inspiration. The last two titles back-to-back [in 2014 and 2015] were won under him. So, it’s a very proud moment for me."

On Karnataka’s recent near-miss in the competition, he said: "We came very close to winning the Ranji Trophy last year. But second place is just not good enough. Reaching the final was a positive, but we are not there yet until we get our hands on the trophy. So the focus is to end the drought," the southpaw added.

Smaran’s century on Sunday arrived as he assumed leadership for a powerhouse side in the Ranji Trophy opener at Mulapadu, reinforcing the sequence of form and selection that followed his Irani Cup performance.

He has been drafted into the India-A squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, the next confirmed engagement mentioned in the report.