IPL 2017: KKR's new bowling coach Balaji will take advice from Wasim Akram

Kolkata, April 3: Lakshmipathy Balaji, who once was one of the key player in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bowling attack, is now the bowling coach of the franchise.

Final list of squads; Photos" title="Full schedule of IPL 2017; Final list of squads; Photos" />Full schedule of IPL 2017; Final list of squads; Photos

Balaji is very much aware of the truth that his post was decorated by bowling legend Wasim Akram.

After arriving in Kolkata to attend the KKR preparatory camp at Eden Gardens, the 35-year-old former Indian pacer said,"I am very much aware of the fact that Akram was KKR bowling coach. As a bowler, I also had taken his several classes in the previous leagues. It was my pleasure that I could attend his teachings on bowling and tried to apply those in my bowling while playing."

Now as the bowling coach of the team, Balaji says he will also try to insert Akram's philosophy among the team's young bowlers.

Even he informed that he will try to call Akram and take his advice before KKR kicks-off in this season.

Balaji said,“I do not have Wasim's phone number at the moment. But I must try to get it and call him for advice. He never behaved like a boss or a coach. He was always like a friend. He was bowling coach for long seven years and like other bowlers in the team I also had the opportunity to share thoughts with him several times. I want to convey those teachings to the bowlers in the team now."

Commenting on absence of West Indies all-rounder Andre Russel, Balaji said, “He is no doubt a match-winning player. But I hope the management must be preparing somebody who can replace him."

The match-winning Caribbean all rounder Russel has been suspended for the 10th edition of IPL following a failure in dope test.

Simultaneously, Balaji was asked about Sunil Narine, the mystery spinner who's action has changed following ICC guideline and after that the West Indian bowler has been struggling to regain old touch.

Balaji said, “I am also looking forward to Narine. I am hopeful he will be as dangerous as he was before in the IPL."

OneIndia News