Lakshmipathy Balaji is ecstatic ahead of the new season with CSK
The 36-year-old has signed up as the bowling coach of the Chennai team.
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Former Indian seamer and a much-loved face in the Tamil Nadu cricket, Lakshmipathy Balaji expressed his eagerness after being appointed as the bowling coach of the Chennai Super Kings for the IPL 2018. Being a local lad, Balaji is aware of the prospects that lie ahead of him as he gears up to re-join the men in yellow in a different role, one that he previously played for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the last edition of the league.
Would relish the opportunity
Balaji is feeling ecstatic to adorn the yellow jersey once again and is hopeful of creating some fond memories with the team as the new exciting season is in the reckoning for both the team and those associated. He would certainly relish the opportunity to be a part of the coaching group headed by Stephen Fleming.
“It’s great to be back with CSK. In fact, my career as a player sort of resumed again post injury in the colours of CSK. I have great memories with CSK and it will be a great exposure for me to be involved with them as coach. I’m looking forward to my stint,” Balaji was quoted as saying by TOI.
Exciting season in prospect
With new responsibilities on his shoulders, the team management would expect the veteran to deliver and form a good bowling unit. For a team like CSK, a comeback should ideally not make a lot of difference and the fans will expect them to come good this season and mark their return with a bang.
Being the coach of Tamil Nadu cricket team would certainly come to Balaji’s aid and will help the franchise identify new raw talent which will add the local connect to the two-time champion side.
“Over the years, CSK have promoted quite a few local talents. TN cricketers if they are talented and fit into the team’s scheme of things will definitely be considered. I have come across quite a few talented cricketers in the country,” he mentioned.
The 36-year old is of the view that playing in a high profile league such as IPL could even help a youngster in moving higher up the ranks faster but at the same time, the game has its own challenges.
“But it’s about the demand and what combination the team needs. CSK have been one of the consistent performers in the IPL. We will discuss on how to build the team. One of the things which you can control is the brand of cricket you play,” he added.
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