South Africa and Kings XI Punjab pacer Hardus Viljoen is excited for the upcoming 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 starting from 19th September in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Ahead of the IPL 2020 in the UAE, the Proteas seamer said the reins of the KXIP is in good hands of “unbelievable captain” KL Rahul and coach Anil Kumble.
The 30-year-old was also confident that the Punjab-based franchise looks good to win the IPL trophy this year while pointing out the fact that the franchise has not lost a single IPL game in the UAE so far.
In 2014, the first half of the IPL was moved to the UAE because of general elections in India and the KXIP had won all their five games; a feat achieved only by the franchise.
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Viljoen told IANS in an exclusive interview: “Kings XI is the only team that hasn't lost a game in the UAE as yet. Mentally, that's a good thing to have but not something to sit on. It's going to be challenging but I feel we have the team to win the trophy.”
He further added, “Playing with Rahul last year [I found that] he is a very relaxed character and always looks to get the best out of players. That's the most important thing for a team's success -- to see what you can do to get the best out of your players; how to create an environment and trust them.”
Rahul's captaincy, the Proteas pacer pointed out: “KL has got unbelievable leadership qualities. I respect him so much as a player. I have only known him since last season and I have got along with him really well. I have had some good chats with him.”
Viljoen continued, “He is always there to help players. To make them feel comfortable, it doesn't matter if you are a new guy in the team or older. That's the most important thing -- communication -- and I feel that we have a great opportunity this year to win the trophy.”
Praising the head coach anil Kumble, the South African said: “From a coaching perspective, the couple of sessions that I have had with Anil Bhai have been really amazing. The environment that he and other coaching staff have created for players to take responsibility is amazing. It's a very family-oriented environment.”
Viljoen is also looking forward to playing alongside Indian speedster Mohammad Shami in the IPL 13.
He signed off by saying: “Shami has played all over the world and against the best in the world. He is one of the best fast bowlers in the world. So, his experience is so valuable in the team and to feed off him makes a huge difference.”
(With IANS Inputs)
