I want to play the next level; I’m at the top of my game and definitely ready: Shreyas Gopal Premium

Shreyas Gopal discusses his impressive season, ambitions for IPL, and readiness to elevate his cricket career.

Ever since Shreyas Gopal returned to Karnataka after spending a year in Kerala, he has been a changed man. In Karnataka’s victorious 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy dash, Shreyas took 18 wickets — his second-best List A season, topped only by his 20 wickets in 2017-18.

In 2025-26, as the Southern powerhouse reached its first Ranji Trophy final since its 2014-15 triumph, Shreyas recorded his best campaign ever, starring with 48 scalps, the third-highest among all bowlers. There were two 10-wicket hauls — another first — and he bowled at an average of 23.14 against a career number of 28.17.

He shone with the bat too, scoring 469 runs — third-best in his 12 seasons — at an average of 33.50. His five half-centuries showed that his run-making was spread out and consistent.

At 32, Shreyas is seemingly at the peak of his prowess, and he spoke to The Hindu on the sidelines of the Ranji Trophy final, which Karnataka eventually lost to Jammu & Kashmir, in Hubballi. Excerpts:

Can you sum up the season?

Definitely one of my better seasons, with both bat and ball. It was very satisfying because performances turned into victories for the team. As a young player, you will want to do well and that will be the primary focus. But as you mature, you will understand how important winning is. I’m grateful that I have had a few trophies under my belt. A lot of the wickets, and a few good innings that I’ve played, have mattered a lot for the team. So I’m glad.