Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has appointed Eric Simons as a bowling consultant before the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League 2018 (IPL) edition. Simons was the bowling consultant for Indian Cricket Team from 2010 to 2012.
The former South African cricketer has also coached Delhi Daredevils and Rising Pune Supergiant team in the IPL previously.
“CSK have always carried an aura of success and confidence which makes it a great privilege to be a part of the franchise and to be a part of the inner workings of such a successful team,” the former India bowling coach said.
“In every IPL tournament, CSK are seen as one of the teams to beat. CSK have been pacesetters in many ways but particularly in the way they have set up their team balance and always maintained a great consistency in squad selection. One always sensed that the team (members) were proud to represent CSK,” added Simons
CSK have won the IPL twice in 2010 and 2011, and have made it to the play-offs in every edition of IPL they played. CSK already has Stephen Fleming as the has head Coach, Michael Hussey as batting coach and Lakshmipathy Balaji as bowling coach.
"CSK have put a fantastic group of coaches together and I grabbed with both hands the opportunity presented to me to be a part of the team. As MS (Dhoni) defines the players at CSK, so Fleming is the constant that defines the coaches. He is a shrewd operator and with MS has forged the formidable partnership that has brought CSK the success that they have achieved,” the 55-year-old stated.
Simons further hailed Dhoni’s contribution in the growth of CSK into a much-decorated franchise. “No other IPL franchise has been defined by an individual in the manner in which MS defines CSK. His record as a player and as a captain across many years is there for all to see. MS is not someone that follows others but is someone who looks for his own path,” the Cape Town-born former fast bowler said.
“It has been a privilege and a learning experience to have worked with him in many situations, first with the Indian team, then at RPS and now with CSK,” he concluded.
KS Viswanathan, CEO, Chennai Super Kings, said Simons’ presence will be of immense help to the side.
“Eric has tremendous experience of working with both Indian and overseas bowlers. Combined with Balaji’s knowledge and experience of Indian conditions, I’m sure that the bowling department will benefit a lot,” Viswanathan stated.
(With inputs from Chennaisuperkings.com)
