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Vasuki Koushik Joins Goa, Karun Nair Returns to Karnataka Ahead of Domestic Season
Vasuki Koushik Parts Ways with Karnataka, Signs with Goa
In a major domestic transfer ahead of the 2025 Indian cricket season, 32-year-old medium pacer Vasuki Koushik has officially moved from Karnataka to Goa, bringing his experience and form to a team aiming for higher success. The Goa Cricket Association (GCA) confirmed Koushik’s signing and revealed that he has been granted a No Objection Certificate (NoC) from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).
“We have signed Koushik. So far, that is the only confirmed transfer. We are exploring a few other options, but no names have been finalised yet,”
– said GCA secretary Shambha Desai to Cricbuzz on July 19.
Koushik becomes one of two professionals signed by Goa so far this season, the other being Arjun Tendulkar, who was retained from last year. Goa also approached Yashasvi Jaiswal, but the India opener eventually backed out after initial interest.
Vasuki Koushik’s Performance Adds Teeth to Goa’s Bowling Line-Up
Koushik’s Stats in 2024 Domestic Season
Last season, Koushik played consistently across formats for Karnataka:
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Ranji Trophy: 7 matches – 23 wickets
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Vijay Hazare Trophy: 5 matches – 8 wickets
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Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: 10 matches – 18 wickets
Known for his disciplined line and movement off the seam, Koushik is expected to form a formidable new-ball pair with Arjun Tendulkar. This move is likely to bolster Goa’s ambitions in the Elite Group, especially after they emerged Ranji Trophy Plate Group champions in the previous season.
In limited-overs formats, Goa had a modest run — 5th in Group A of the Vijay Hazare Trophy and 6th in their group in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The team was captained by Darshan Misal in the red and 50-over ball format, while Deepraj Gaonkar led in T20s.
👉 Related Reading: Goa’s Road to the 2024 Ranji Plate Title
Karun Nair Returns to Karnataka After Vidarbha Stint
In another high-profile move, veteran batter Karun Nair has returned to Karnataka, leaving Vidarbha after two seasons. Nair, who famously scored a triple century in Test cricket for India, made the decision due to personal reasons, as originally reported by Cricbuzz on June 19.
Nair’s return strengthens Karnataka’s batting depth. His presence will be crucial as Karnataka eyes silverware in the upcoming domestic season. As of now, Nair is listed as India’s No. 3 Test batter, although he has been out of national contention in recent months.
Bengal Announces 50 Probables: Mohammed Shami Headlines the List
Adding to the roster reshuffles, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has announced a 50-member probables list for the new season. Leading the list is senior Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, who is currently recovering from injury.
Also included is Abhimanyu Easwaran, the reliable Bengal opener who is currently on tour in England with the Shubman Gill-led Indian Test squad.
CAB secretary Naresh Ojha released the list on Saturday morning, underlining Bengal’s commitment to building a competitive and balanced side.
🔗 View the official CAB announcement and full probables list here
Transfers Bring a New Edge to Domestic Cricket
With Vasuki Koushik’s move to Goa and Karun Nair’s homecoming to Karnataka, India’s domestic season is heating up even before a ball is bowled. These changes not only impact team combinations but also open new strategic avenues for coaches and captains. All eyes will be on how these seasoned players shape the fate of their respective sides.
