Thaindian News

Mohali, April 7 (IANS) Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said Thursday he was excited and was looking forward to leading Kings XI Punjab in the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) that begins Friday.

“As the new captain of Kings XI Punjab, it’s really an exciting time. We have mixture of players, some with IPL experience and some without it. We are getting to know each other well; we all are getting very excited with the upcoming opportunity. I would like to acknowledge all the support that we have got here,” said Gilchrist, while talking to reporters here at Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) stadium Thursday.

“We are looking forward to good number of fans and there would be full entertainment along with cricket. India is a nation that has hosted the World Cup and then after a week, is hosting the IPL. This is a nation that can do it. In this cricket crazy nation, I am sure it would be a very successful event,” he said.

Gilchrist’s former team-mate Michael Bevan, coach of Kings XI Punjab, was also very excited.

“It’s an absolute pleasure coaching Kings XI Punjab team. I am very excited. There are many young talented players in the team. It’s quite an honour for me to work as the coach of this team,” said Bevan.

“My role as a coach will be to help players to improve their performance and to understand them. We have quite a number of young local players. For me its a great opportunity and a great experience to being here with Kings XI and I am really looking forward to it,” he said.