Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batsman Eoin Morgan said he is hoping to provide perfect aid to power-hitter Andre Russell in an effort to bolster the two-time champions' middle-order for the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Morgan has reunited with the KKR set-up after seven years, as the think-tank bought the much-improved limited-overs batsman at last year's auction to free-up some of Russell's burden. Morgan wants to prove a helping hand in giving KKR's innings the final flourish they so require.
Read Also: "All I had to do was give him the strike", Smith lauds Samson's brilliance
“I know (Andre) Russell has done that role significantly well for a number of years for Kolkata. He’s done exceptionally well. If I get a go, hopefully, I will be able to aid that," Morgan told a virtual press conference before his team's campaign opener versus Mumbai Indians (MI) in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (September 23).
Morgan knows the vote of confidence shown by KKR in him is a sign that he has made genuine progress into a more robust batsman.
“I think it’s been quite a few years since I played (at KKR). Just looking at batting, my game has really come on quite a lot in the last three to four years. I would like to think I’ve come on quite well," said the 34-year-old, who led England to 2019 World Cup glory and will be expected to provide inputs to KKR captain Dinesh Karthik as well
Apart from Morgan, KKR also roped in Somerset's young batting sensation Tom Banton and renowned Australian quick Pat Cummins to further strengthen their squad.
“I think with the squad that we have, it gives us better options, particularly in batting and bowling. I think within the squad we have a number of very versatile cricketers who can specifically control the batting department,” Morgan said.
Besides shrewd players' signings, KKR revamped their coaching staff also after a disappointing campaign last season. Brendon McCullum came on board as head coach, joined by bowling coach Kyle Mills and team mentor David Hussey.
On McCullum, the former New Zealand captain, Morgan said he shares a nice camaraderie with him.
“We have been very good friends for a number of years now. When it comes to sports that we enjoy horse racing, as well. Both of us really enjoy the experience," he signed off.
(Inputs from PTI)
