The 31-year-old batsman from Karnataka has parted his ways with the Karnataka State Cricket Association and is all set to play for Saurashtra in the 2017-18 season of the Ranji Trophy.

Robin Uthappa, who was an integral member of the state team for the past one decade had applied for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) which was granted to him in June.

Saurashtra Cricket Board (SCA) in a media statement said, “Robin Uthappa has completed all necessary formalities with the Board of Cricket Control in India, Saurashtra Cricket Association and Karnataka State Cricket Association. Saurashtra Cricket Association welcomes Robin Uthappa. SCA feels confident that Robin will add up strength to strong Ranji Team of Saurashtra with his vast experience and commendable performance”

Saurashtra will rely heavily on this experienced wicketkeeper-batsman in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara who will be busy with their international duty. There was a rumor going on that he might play for Kerala but eventually, he struck a deal with Saurashtra Cricket Association.

KSCA secretary Sudhakar Rao said when as about Uthappa’s decision, “We had two meetings with him but we couldn”t convince him to stay. He had his own plans. ‘I”ve played here; now I want to play elsewhere,’ is what he said. We tried to retain him. But we can”t force anybody. He has reached this level only because of this state. The final decision was his. Wherever he goes, our best wishes are always with him. He is our boy,”

The Kolkata Knight Rider’s batsman who had some wonderful seasons with Karnataka will look to find his old form and play a useful role in the Saurashtra set up after he was dropped from Karnataka side last season for few matches.