Stephen Fleming eager to win on IPL debut with new franchise
Apr 2, 2016 at 4:55 PM
As the World T20 comes to a closure, the craze of the IPL is due to engulf the cricketing fraternity. The excitement surrounding the IPL is also at a new high, considering that two new franchises will be making their debuts. Stephen Fleming, coach of the MS Dhoni-led Rising Pune Supergiants has said that he is very eager to win the trophy on his side’s IPL debut.
“We are realistic about how hard it is to win the IPL, but we are certainly not here to make up the numbers. We have got the desire to win the IPL in our first year and make a statement,” said Fleming. The former Kiwi skipper also added that he was lucky to have Dhoni as his side’s captain. “I understand that too many chefs can make things messy, but believe me, when you have someone like MS Dhoni, here is no question who is in control.”
Fleming also spoke about Pune’s destructive batsman Kevin Pietersen and his prospects. “I think KP now realizes that he is not going to be a part of the England set-up. He has got a great presence and he knows T20 and franchisee cricket very well. His experience and ability won us games and after working with him at Melbourne Stars, I was very sure of what he can give it to the side,” he said.
Stressing on the significance of Dhoni’s fitness, Fleming said, “I saw him running between the wickets in the World T20 semis. He is physically fit and fresh as a captain. Having retired from Test cricket has given him a new lease of life. He has a young family and now he gets more time to spend with them. This will help him focus more on his cricket. Also, I won’t be surprised if I see you asking the same question in 2019,” he said.