Kings XI Punjab is all set to retain their skipper Ravichandran Ashwin, franchise’s co-owner Ness Wadia has confirmed. It was earlier reported that Ashwin will be traded with Delhi Capitals but it is not going to be the case now. The off-spinner was given the captaincy reins in Indian Premier League 2018 and he has done a decent job for the team.
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Meanwhile, Kings XI Punjab has roped in the services of former Indian captain and coach Anil Kumble. The former leg-spinner will serve as the head coach of the franchise. Furthermore, Sunil Joshi, former southpaw spinner will be Kings XI Punjab spin coach.
Kings XI Punjab is not trading their captain.
“Ashwin is an integral part of the team and he will continue to remain so. You know the value Ashwin brings to the team,” Wadia told Sportstar.
“There is no question of letting him go,” he added.
On the other hand, Kings XI Punjab is yet to savor success in the cash-rich tournament. Thus, they would like to turn the tables under the leadership of Ravichandran Ashwin. The franchise has not been able to make it to the playoff stages in the last two seasons and they would like to come out all guns blazing in IPL 2020.
“We have seen what [impact] Ashwin has in the Indian team. He is an exceptional player and is not only an asset for the Indian team, but also for Kings XI Punjab,” Wadia said.
Furthermore, former South African fielder Jonty Rhodes has been roped in as the fielding coach by the franchise. Former Australian captain George Bailey who has played for the team will be the batting coach. Thus, Kings XI Punjab has got a potent coaching staff.
Meanwhile, Ness Wadia believes that the appointment of Anil Kumble as the head coach of the team will bring quality to the table.
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“Kumble has worked with two franchises in the past and is record has been phenomenal. He brings the Indian-ness to the team and I am sure he will do well,” Wadia said.
“He understands the Indian mindset and can bond pretty well with all the players. I am sure he will inspire the whole team,” Wadia said.
On the other hand, the trading window will close on November 14 for all the eight teams. Punjab will like to deliver a collective team effort in the upcoming season of the IPL.