Gilchrist to lead Kings XI Punjab in IPL-IV

New Delhi, Jan 11 (PTI) Kings XI Punjab today namedformer Australian wicket-keeper bastman Adam Gilchrist asthe team''s captain for the fourth edition of the IndianPremier League starting April 8.

The hard-hitting left-hander was the skipper of DeccanChargers in the first three editions of the cash-rich Twenty20tournament and even led the Hyderabad outfit to the title inIPL II in 2009.

"I am excited to play in the IPL again as part of KingsXI Punjab, one of the most passionate and dynamic teams of theIPL. The role of a captain is a challenging one and I hopethat I can live up to the expectations and trust that the KXIPmanagement has shown in me," Gilchrist said in a statementissued by KXIP.

Col Arvinder Singh, Chief Operating Officer of Kings XIPunjab while commenting on the development said, "Gilchrist isa record breaking player and undoubtedly an asset to the newlyformed team. We believe that he is an excellent leader and alegend in his own right with the requisite expertise andexperience to lead Kings XI Punjab on the path of victory thisyear."

Kings XI coach Michael Bevan, who played alongsideGilchrist for Australia, is hoping that the Punjab outfit''sfortune will change with new captain.

"We at KXIP are looking forward to playing in the IPLthis season with altogether a new set of players led by anextremely aggressive and attacking captain. Gilchrist has gotgreat leadership skills and yet is one of the most humblecricketers across the globe. I believe he has a lot to offerto the team both on and off the field," Bevan said.