espnstar.com’s Rajarshi Gupta spoke to former India players on the impact the Karnataka Premier League will have on the IPL.

There is a buzz in the air around the Karnataka State Cricket Association and for good reasons too. The board's decision to launch the KPL has stirred some interest in the Indian cricketing fraternity.

Former India batsman and National Cricket Academy coach, Gundappa Vishwanath said a tournament like the KPL will help Bangalore and other towns in Karnataka tap more local talent in time for the third edition of the Indian Premier League.

"I think the KPL, as an initiative will strengthen the local base. An event like this can showcase the amazing talent we have in Karnataka.

Once these boys get to rub shoulders with the more accomplished players, it will do wonders to their confidence and experience."

Vishwanath said the IPL franchisees will keenly watch the action unfold in the KPL to see how the players shape up.

His views were echoed by former India Test player Vishal Bharadwaj, who said not only the Vijay Mallya owned Bangalore Royal Challengers but other franchisees too might want to focus on the Karnataka league.

"You know, there are so many cricketers who don't get that exposure to shine at the highest level. The KPL will be the perfect platform for these guys to show their mettle and get in contention for something as big as the IPL."

Bharadwaj said he, as a former Karnataka player would be satisfied even if the domestic Twent20 league threw up one more Kamran Khan (the young, tearaway from Rajasthan Royals) or even a Manish Pandey, who enthralled spectators in South Africa with a scintillating hundred.

"Look, the KPL is all about churning out talent and I hope a whole new pool of good, young players come through."

However, both Vishwanath and Bharadwaj reiterated that Test cricket and playing for India should be the top priority for any player despite the mania about T20 cricket.

"The players should realise that this (the KPL) is just the beginning. The larger perspective should be about playing for India."

Let everyone see the money

Former Karnataka Ranji Trophy player Mohan, who has also coached star Indian batsman VVS Laxman said it is only fair that new talent is identified and they be given an opportunity to earn some money.

"Tapping new talent is important but there should be adequate training session to help and guide the players."

The Indian Premier League has had an impact already. Two years down the line since its inception, Karnataka has taken the lead to take the latest format a step further. The drums, as they say, have just started to roll.