Thaindian News

Jaipur, April 5 (IANS) Retirement from international cricket has not affected Rahul Dravid’s love for the game and he is keen on performing for the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Dravid replaces Australian spin legend Shane Warne as captain and coach of the Royals. He turned out for Royal Challengers Bangalore in previous IPL editions.

Royals’ IPL-V opener against Kings XI Punjab will be the first time Dravid takes the field after ending his illustrious international career last month.

The 39-year-old said he was at ease with playing T20 and his main challenge would be to galvanize the team.

“I have been playing in this format for the past four years so I do not think there would be any different feeling. I can say I am a lot more keen and focused,” Dravid told reporters ahead of the match Friday.

“I have taken over as captain, coach and mentor from Shane Warne so there are expectations but I feel these are more of words and basically it is more about coordinating with the support staff to get the results,” he said.

The veteran is also looking forward to work with the talented bunch of domestic players in the squad.

“Every team has to rely on domestic players as it is a team game, the four overseas players are not enough.

“I am happy that we have some very exciting players in Ajinkya Rahane, Ashok Menaria and few more.”

Dravid spoke highly of Menaria.

“Menaria is an exciting talent and the way he has been batting for the last seven days in the camp here has been sensational. He is at a very important stage of his career. I hope good performance in the IPL takes him forward.

“I would be happy if I am able to use my experience and help the youngsters like Menaria and Rahane to climb up the ladder,” he added.