Kiccha Sudeep’s Celebrity Rockstars Team Announces the Inclusion of 3 Cricketers

Venkatesh Prasad, Sunil Joshi and David Johnson will be playing in the KPL this season

Bangalore, 3rd July, 2015: Karbonn Smart Karnataka Premier League 2015 promises to provide an even more exciting contest this year with three cricketers joining the celebrity Rockstars team. Co-owned by Raju Gowda and Sandalwood Star Kiccha Sudeep, the ‘All Stars’ team will see the inclusion of former national cricketers -Venkatesh Prasad, Sunil Joshi and David Johnson.

Speaking at a press conference at the KSCA today, Kiccha Sudeep who also leads the team, adding a dash of humour to the proceedings, said, “We were the most consistent team at KPL last year – by losing all our matches. Other teams won some and lost some but none could live up to our consistent performance on the field. This year, the inclusion of the three cricketing stars will disrupt that record I fear. On a more serious note, I feel that these players are legends of the game and those playing in this edition will elevate KPL to another level altogether. And having them in our side is a great opportunity for us to learn a lot more about the game and help us improve our performance.”

Sudeep went on to add, “We thought after last year we were done with the KPL. But I received a call from Brijesh Patel and was asked to be a part of the KPL this year too! I spent a lot of time trying to figure out why we were being invited again. A few days later, when sitting with Brijesh Patel and the KSCA Committee members, he explained, “Consistency comes from a lot of hard work, determination and dedication”.

Talking of the three former India stars, Venkatesh Prasad, Sunil Joshi and David Johnson, in his team, the Sandalwood star said, “It is fantastic to know that ‘Real Stars’ are a part of our team and the KPL. They are the ones who have led from the front and become idols for many in the State and Country”.

Venkatesh Prasad, former India speedster, said, “When Sudeep initially called me I had no idea he was going to ask me to be a part of his team. So when asked, I immediately said yes. I am not sure if I will be able to disturb the team’s famed consistency or live up to the Aamir Sohail send off, but I will definitely try my best and give my full support to the Rockstars and KPL.”

He also added, “I hope I don’t have to pad up and can just do my best with the ball.” Former India all-rounder Sunil Joshi said, “I am here purely for Sudeep's passion for this great game. I know that he has played very competitive cricket last year at the KPL and I have seen his heroics in the CCL as well.

I would like to thank Sudeep, who came forward and took this initiative and made us a part of KPL 2015. I am big supporter of Karnataka Cricket and in particular, rural Karnataka cricket. There is lots of talent in our state waiting to be unearthed. This is the best platform for seniors like us to spot this talent for Karnataka and nurture them.”

David Johnson, looking fit for his 40+ years said the reason he opted to play for the Rockstars was, “It’s a great tournament and it should help build the Rockstars team. We (senior Pros) being back in the tournament can only help the Team and the KPL. I am sure we will give all the other teams a good run for their money and perhaps win a few games”.

As for helping the League he said, “It was the Celebrity team that had the crowds pouring in and this year too it will be the same. Our presence is sure to bring a little more of the crowd as they will expect us to win a few too.”

Last year, the Rockstars team was a new addition to the tournament and featured actors like Vikranth, Pradeep, Karthik J and Shabbir Ahluwalia who were also a part of the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL).

The T20 franchise-based league will feature eights team this year with Shimoga being the new team to enter the fray.

KPL IV will be telecasted live on Sony Six.