KKR lacked cohesiveness in first two IPLs: Shah Rukh
By IANSMonday, January 11, 2010
KOLKATA - Diagnosing lack of cohesion as the cause for the poor show of the team in the first two editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) co-owner and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan Monday hoped the side will be able to reverse its fortunes this time with a fresh approach.
“This year we have a fresh approach to everything. Fresh coach, support staff, (Wasim) Akram is here,” Shah Rukh told mediapersons during the ongoing KKR camp.
After getting the wooden spoon in the second edition of the IPL, the KKR has appointed Ganguly as skipper with Dav Whatmore taking over as the new coach. Akram is the bowling consultant.
Describing the team as a combination of old guard and youngsters, Shah Rukh stressed the need for a good team spirit. “The important thing here is team spirit, which should be maintained throughout the season”.
On the reasons for the team’s failures in the IPL so far, he said: “Somewhere down the line I think we were not able to perform as a cohesive unit. The onus on us this season is to imbibe the cohesiveness to perform on a better scale.”
Shah Rukh said he had dropped in at the camp to boost the squad. “I have come here not to speak about cricket. Many experts are here like Sourav, Akram, Dav who can train and advise the guys. My job is just to cheer up the entire squad.”
Shah Rukh said he hated losing. “Hopefully, by the end of this series the KKR will be a much better team.”
Asked to name the players his team was eyeing, Shah Rukh said: “We have already had discussions about it. By Jan 17 or 18 we will get a more or less clear picture about the availability of international players. We already do have some names in our mind.”
“It is up to Dav and Dada (Sourav Ganguly) to take the final call. And I certainly will give my inputs,” he said.
