Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are gearing up for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 opener against defending champions Chennai Super Kings on March 26. Ahead of the much-awaited game, the franchise will face an uphill task to form their playing XI. A pool of talented players.
Meanwhile, newly-appointed captain Shreyas Iyer has said that he is ready to bat at any position for his team. The 27-year-old, who was bought by KKR in the mega auction for Rs 12.25 crore, usually plays at no. 5. For India though he would prefer to bat at his preferred position of No. 3 But, with Nitish Rana in the mix, the captain may have to push himself down the line-up.
In a conversation with KKR.in, the skipper said that he is ready to explore and is ready to bat wherever needed.
“Personally, I love batting at No 3 and I think this is the place for me as I have been batting at that position for a very long time. Otherwise, I am flexible and happy to bat wherever my team needs me. I am comfortable with that and can come up with what I am ready to explore,” Shreyas said.
“You can’t basically portray yourself as an anchor. It may vary. One day I can be a power hitter and another day I can play the role of an anchor. Roles may change according to situations. You can’t depend on one player to open the innings. If this is your day, then you absolutely need to go all out and see that you win for the team. Basically, all the players in the team have to take responsibility,” he said.
The stylish batsman, who last represented Delhi Capitals in the IPL, also mentioned that his batting style matches KKR’s aggressive and fearless brand of cricket.
“From outside when I have played against KKR, they have been aggressive and fearless as a team. Right from the first ball, he likes to punch and put you on the back foot. You need to have that mindset and I have the same mindset as a batsman.”
“When I lead as a captain, I want that same intensity in my players. I want us to go out there, express ourselves as much as we can, don’t have too many regrets when we’re out there and all you do is do it for the team and put yourself second. That’s the mindset I like to focus on as a captain.”
KKR will take on Chennai Super Kings in the first match of IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on March 26.
(with agency input)
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