Deepak Chougule
DOB: April 1, 1984

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right-Hand Batsman, Right Arm Off-Spinner, Wicket-Keeper

Affectionately called ‘chotu’ by his teammates because of his diminutive size, this Belgaum boy is a true all-rounder who is itching to take to the field for Bangalore Brigadiers – the team he knows that the rest of the KPL is looking up to and expects the best from. With a strong passion for the game and an unwavering determination, Deepak is an ideal Leader for a team with such high expectations. A product of Presidency School and College in Bangalore, Deepak’s favourite shot is the square cut and given that he once scored 400 runs on debut in the Karnataka under-13’s side, we’re sure he will attempt a similar performance in the KPL!

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Robin Uthappa
DOB: Nov 11, 1985

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Batsman, Right Arm Medium-Pacer

The classy stroke-player is the ace up Bangalore Brigadiers’ sleeve and is sure to be the cynosure of all eyes during the tournament. A proud alum of St. Joseph’s Boys’ High School in Bangalore, Robin is a confident and unflappable batsman whose memorable 47 off 33 balls against England in the one-day series in 2007 helped India seal a thrilling win in the last over. Considered to be a one-day specialist and an exquisite stroke player Robin has proved his class on the world stage. In his free time, Robin enjoys reading, going for drives, watching movies and listening to music and loves Bangalore because of its ‘cozy’ feel.
Robin is supremely proud to be a Bangalore Brigadier and can’t wait to play his favourite straight-drive in front of his home crowd in the KPL.

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David Mathias
DOB: March 20, 1991

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right-Hand Batsman, Right Arm Fast Bowler

Nicknamed ‘Freddie’ after the dangerous all-rounder Freddie Flintoff, Mangalore boy David Mathias literally towers over his opponents, standing at an imposing 6ft 5inches! His most memorable cricketing moment happened when he was 14-years old and had just shifted from St. Joseph’s to Bishop Cottons (both in Bangalore) and played a tournament for his new school. David scored a century in the semi-final against his old school, St. Joseph’s, despite a hostile Joseph’s crowd that booed him mercilessly for switching loyalties! With a powerful bottom-hand and innovative shot-selection don’t be surprised if you see him send the cricket ball outside the stadium on a regular basis! David loves the people of Bangalore and is thrilled to be a part of the premier team in the KPL.

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K.L. Rahul
DOB: April 18, 1992

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right-Hand Batsman, Wicket-keeper

This Mangalore lad is extremely proud to bat for the high-profile Bangalore Brigadiers! Off the field, the tall teenager enjoys swimming, football and listening to music and admires legendary athletes like Usain Bolt and Lance Armstrong. With precision timing and technique, this youngster will be one to watch out for. His century against DY Patil during the KSCA Invitational in Bangalore has certainly gotten him the credit and attention he deserves, and as one of the youngest members of the team, Rahul hopes to learn a lot from the more experienced players in the side.

Mansur Ali Khan
DOB: May 22, 1972

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Batsman, Right Arm Medium-Pacer

This family man may be a softie when it comes to his two daughters, but he is a strong force to contend with on the cricket field. He is a fighter to the end, and has saved his Karnataka team from the jaws of defeat on many an occasion – most notably against Hyderabad in 1998. With a repertoire of skills at his disposal, this wily-old-fox will be a key strategist for the team. The experienced all-rounder relishes a good straight drive and is eagerly awaiting a chance to display his wares in the shortest format of the game.

Nikil Kashyap
DOB:  May 9, 1987

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Batsman, Right Arm Off-Spinner

Sport would be a lot poorer without the enduring attraction of its many characters - from Muhammad Ali to Andrew Flintoff. With Nikil Kashyap in their ranks, Bangalore Brigadiers certainly won't be lacking in that regard. A gifted talent earmarked for great things, Nikil has demonstrated his all-round abilities while representing the state at various age groups, and it is only a matter of time before he makes it to the Ranji side. His potential was evident during his resolute century against President’s XI in the Safi Darashah Tournament; and more significantly, perhaps, so was his character. He believes that his stint with the Bangalore Brigadiers represents a significant learning experience in his fledgling career. His confidence is contagious, and this admirer of Matthew Hayden is sure to make a name for himself in the KPL.

Vinu Prasad Narayan
DOB: June 20, 1985

Batting and Bowling R/L: Left Hand Batsman, Left Arm Spinner

Next in the long and illustrious line of exceptional Karnataka spinners is Bangalore Brigadiers' own Vinu Prasad Narayan. A left-arm orthodox spinner in the Bedi mould, Vinu has produced consistently excellent performances for Karnataka at various age group levels - none more so than the astonishing 50 wicket haul at the Under 19 Inter-State Tournament in 2004. Now, he is primed to make the big leap with the Brigadiers. Like most Indian spinners of his generation, Vinu is inspired by legendary Bangalorean Anil Kumble. And like Anil, he's no mug with the bat too - he confidently asserts that his favourite shot is a loft straight back over the bowler's head! Vinu says that given a choice to join any team in the KPL, he would choose Bangalore Brigadiers. We can only say that given a choice to pick one young spinner in the state we would pick Vinu Narayan every single time.

Syed Ibrez
DOB: May 1, 1984

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Opening batsman, Right Arm Medium-Pacer

A batting all-rounder who is starting to make a name for himself, Syed Ibrez's list of attributes read like a T20 dream. A flamboyant opener with a dazzling array of strokes and medium-pacers reminiscent of the old Steve Waugh, "Ibbi" is a great addition to the team. Proud to represent his hometown, Syed knows that his best years are ahead of him and is keen to keep gradually improving. Armed with a devastating pull - on evidence at the Corporate Tournament Finals in 2007 where Ibbi scored 148 in 44 balls - Syed looks set to take the KPL by storm. Intensely private, you would find Ibbi out on long drives with friends on a weekend evening. Perhaps this is what keeps this precociously talented all-rounder rooted - much like his idol Mahendra Singh Dhoni.  

Rajesh Singh
DOB: March 1, 1990

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Batsman, Right Arm Fast-Bowler 

Originally hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Bangalore is now home to promising speedster Rajesh Singh. It is evident that speed is what truly thrills Rajesh; whether is hurting batsmen with raw pace, or burning the wheels of his Pulsar. An exploding talent with the new ball, coupled with a well disguised slower ball in his arsenal, Rajesh is a key ingredient to the Brigadiers line-up. Modeled on Brett Lee, Rajesh is not short of character too. Facing his native Uttar Pradesh side while playing for Karnataka Under-17s, Rajesh produced his most inspired performance, taking six wickets and leading Karnataka to victory. A fan of David Beckham, Rajesh wants to emulate Beckham’s famous work rate on the field as his blueprint. This speedster is sure to give many a batsman nightmares in the KPL.   

Sadiq Kirmani
DOB: May 21, 1989

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Batsman, Wicket-keeper

While expectation can serve to weigh some down, it can inspire others on to great deeds. Placed firmly in the latter category is Sadiq Kirmani, son of legendary wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani. The similarities are unmistakable as Sadiq himself is a young glove-man based on the same dedication that made his father great. But Sadiq has learned to take all this in his stride as he strives to create a niche for himself in the cricketing world. Picked for the State in the Under-15 age group for the first time, Sadiq played a memorable innings against Tamil Nadu to announce himself to the world at large. And since then, this opening batsman has gone from strength to strength. Despite his sky-high ambitions, Sadiq’s feet remain firmly planted in the ground and he recognizes the importance of the opportunity of being able to pursue his dream.   

T.K. Ananth
DOB: February 9, 1970

Batting and Bowling R/L: Left Handed Batsman, Left Arm Orthodox Spinner

Bangalore Brigadiers have attempted to engender the elusive balance between experience and youth. A valuable addition to our squad, therefore, is Bangalorean T.K. Ananth, who brings a wealth of knowledge of the local cricket scene. Known affectionately by his teammates as “Tiger” for his feline instincts in the infield, Ananth has his agility, mobility and stamina at par with any other young gun in the team. Ananth views this unexpected call-up as a reward for consistent performances at the local level. With a never-say-die attitude, Ananth brings the old-school grit and determination to the Brigadiers. A huge fan of Pete Sampras and Sachin Tendulkar, Ananth will aim to transmit a similar calm to the Brigadiers.   

Dilip Sagar
DOB: April 20, 1988

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Batsman, Right Arm Fast Bowler

This true-blue Bangalorean would like to emulate Brett Lee's lethal speed on the field, but off-field this charming lad enjoys quality time with his father and relaxing with friends. He was the leading wicket-taker for the Karnataka Under-17 team in 2005 and 'Dillu' realizes how important the upcoming KPL tournament is for his career - especially playing for the most high-profile team in the tournament. A product of the BJS International Residential School and St. Joseph's College of Commerce, the happy-go-lucky youngster will no doubt unleash his dangerous side when playing against the opposition.

Nishanth Shekhawat
DOB: June 17, 1990

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Batsman, Right Arm Off-Spinner

An air of inevitability exists around gifted talents when they step up to realize their potential. So it is with swashbuckling young Nishant Shekhawat – and it was with his idol Sachin Tendulkar – who has always had the makings of a special T20 player. With a string of eye-catching performances throughout various age categories, Nishant truly announced his arrival with an incredible double hundred for a KIOC Eleven in a T20 match in Sri Lanka, scoring an astonishing 268* off 85 balls! Though born in Ahmedabad, Bangalore is the city Nishant calls home and views this opportunity with the Brigadiers as a grand platform to demonstrate his talents. A fan of Maria Sharapova, “Chotu” is sure to be a big hit in the forthcoming season with his straight drives and big hits.

M. Vinod
DOB: December 16, 1977

Batting and Bowling R/L: Right Hand Batsman, Right Arm Medium-Pacer

The all-rounder’s role has risen to hitherto unseen significance with the advent of T20 cricket. Amongst that priceless pantheon of cricketers belongs M. Vinod. Vastly experienced and a former captain of the Karnataka U-25 team, “Vinoda” brings that rare mix of skill and poise to the squad. A hard-as-nails team man, it is here that the sporting influences upon him are instructive – Vinod is a huge admirer of Ricky Ponting and Chelsea. A specialist of the various varieties of the sweep shot, Vinod is raring to perform for Bangalore Brigadiers.

Steve Lazarus
DOB:February 14, 1983

Batting and Bowling R/L:  Left-Hand Batsman

This straight-talking, hard-hitting left-hander brings with him a wealth of experience that belies his young age. Nicknamed 'Sunny', he certainly brings sunshine to the team dressing-room and is rated as a true 'character' by his teammates. The southpaw is blessed with a crunching array of shots, and a dynamic attitude on the field. Off the field, Lazars is committed to doing his bit for society and coaches at the YMCA on a regular basis. No wonder then, that his sporting idols are cricketer Steve Waugh and legendary Ethiopian marathoner Haile Gebrselassie (who famously auctioned off his Olympic medals to charity). Lazars proudest cricket moment to date happened when he was selected to play in the Irish cricket league and we're sure he will create more memories for himself and fans of the Bangalore Brigadiers during the KPL.

Santhosh Prem Kumar
DOB:Septmeber 7, 1986

Batting and Bowling R/L:  Right-Hand Batsman, Right-Arm Off Spinnern

An aggressive swashbuckling opening batsman from the suburbs of Hubli, “Limbu” as he is lovingly called is an exciting prospect for the Brigadiers. With a fearless flamboyance and a natural gift for clearing the ropes Santhosh is an explosive batsman with powerful cover drive. With a temperament as cool as the city he loves, Santhosh has coupled his batting skills with a disciplined guile in the bowling department. An ideal bowling option for the T-20 format, this crafty youngster aims at one day reaching the heights of his idol Michael Vaughn. You can definitely expect fireworks from this lad every time he takes guard, because when you ask him about his batting strategy for the KPL he cheekily responds with an excited “GO, GO, GO!!”

Samarth R
DOB:January 22, 1993

Batting and Bowling R/L:  Right-Hand Batsman, Right-Arm Off Spinner

This thunderous opening batsman, hailing from the city of Mysore, is the youngest member of the Brigadiers line-up and fits the tag of being a childhood prodigy. With a youthful exuberance and a determined optimism, Samarth is an electrifying all-rounder with an intention to prove his mettle on this competitive platform. Having done his schooling at Bishop Cottons Bangalore, “Sam” as he is fondly called was an instant success at the junior-circuits which included a memorable century against the feared bowling line-up of Andhra Pradesh. Eager to learn from his experienced team-mates, Samarth is all smiles at the thought of being part of a championship-winning side. An avid gamer and an enthusiastic badminton player, Samarth relishes the opporutnity to represent the People of Bangalore.

Prajwal Srinivas
DOB:August 1, 1987

Batting and Bowling R/L:  Right-Hand Batsman, Right-Arm Off Spinner

“Papps” is one of the few members of the Brigadiers line-up with a deadly combination of technique and extravagance. This 23 year old middle order batsman has a plethora of shots, with one of the game’s most envied cover drives! Few have talent; fewer still couple that with leadership. Prajwal is one of those lucky cricketers to possess an inherent leadership quality, which he honed from a very young age by captaining the Bishop Cotton Boys High School cricket team. Growing up idolizing the likes of Rahul Dravid and Lance Armstrong, Prajwal is keen to contribute towards the successes of such an established and diverse side. When he is not busy captaining the state teams, Prajwal can be found at gym, or de-stressing through a game of squash. A thorough professional, Prajwal is a boon to the Brigadiers line-up.

Abinav Shankar Narayan
DOB:September 20, 1984

Batting and Bowling R/L:  Right-Hand Batsman, Right-Arm Leg Spinner

Nicknamed “Military”, it’s no surprise then that Abinav is a fitness freak, well woven with threads of discipline, integrity and determination. The Bangalore boy, a product of Frank Anthony Public School was an avid sportsman right from his childhood days. One of the few cricketers to crack a massive six at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore at the age of 13! With Sachin Tendulkar as his idol Abhinav holds the distinction of possessing powerful strokes with finesse, style and class. When he his not thumping medium pacers of the back foot, Abhinav can be found working on his fitness which he trains for passionately or enjoying long drives. With interests in Rugby and Olympic Weightlifting, this 23 year-old is excited about playing for his hometown and is waiting to explode on the KPL platform.

Zahoor Farooqi
DOB:October 17, 1988

Batting and Bowling R/L:  Right-Hand Batsman, Right-Arm Medium Pacer

A proud graduate of The Gulf Indian High School, Dubai, this talented speedster is one any batsman would fear to face. “Noodles” as he is affectionately called due to his curly hair, loves the slog sweep, but loves the sound of timber even more. At 5ft 11inches this daunting medium pacer is well on his way to live up to the standards set by his idol Courtney Walsh. Zahoor is ecstatic at having made it to a team with such a massive group of emerging talents, and is eager to fire in a quick bouncer with a couple of toe-crunching yorkers to batsman across the KPL. An avid football fan, Zahoor wants to repeat his accomplishment of a 6 wicket haul in the first division of Karnataka’s domestic circuit, as often as possible.