Vinay Kumar ready to guide new Karnataka players in Ranji Trophy

Karnataka coach Vinay Kumar said on Friday that he will focus on helping new players adapt to the pressures of first-class cricket ahead of the Ranji Trophy opener against Andhra. Injuries and national call-ups have left the side without several senior players.

Prasidh Krishna, V. Vyshak and Vidwath Kaverappa are unavailable due to injuries. KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal and R. Smaran have India and India A commitments.

Vinay, who led Karnataka to back-to-back Ranji titles in 2013-14 and 2014-15, said the priority is to create a relaxed environment where emerging players can make decisions under pressure.