IPL 2016: Rahul Dravid named mentor of Delhi Daredevils

New Delhi, March 1: Former India captain and batting legend Rahul Dravid was today (March 1) unveiled as Delhi Daredevils' mentor for this year's Indian Premier League (IPL 2016) Twenty20 tournament.

IPL 2016 squads

At a press conference in Delhi on Tuesday, Daredevils announced Dravid as their mentor for the new season. Dravid recently coached the India Under-19 team and took them to the final where they lost to West Indies. Also today, Paddy Upton was named as Daredevils' head coach.

"Delhi Daredevils has a good mix of young and established players. It is great to be a part of Delhi Daredevils, I am looking forward to work with TA Sekhar and Paddy Upton," the 43-year-old Dravid said.

"It is an exciting opportunity. I have never had the opportunity to play for Delhi but have played against them and coached against them, and you always looked them and thought there is so much potential. From what I see, the Daredevils have assembled a young and exciting squad and along with the support staff, I am hoping for a successful season," Dravid added.

Asked whether he will have a long association with Daredevils, Dravid explained, "Everything is dependent on a lot of things so we will take one step at a time. As of now, I am looking forward to the next three months and we will take the future as it comes."

Dravid recalled his days with Rajasthan. "I have got fond memories there (of Royals). It is pretty obvious why the opportunity came. I thought I won't be involved in the IPL for the next couple of years. It is natural (to feel the connect) if you spend five years at any place.

"Having said that, I am looking forward to building some great associations at Daredevils. I have known some of the people here for a long time. Hopefully, we can have a good season," he said.

Dravid was with Rajasthan Royals (RR) as their mentor. However, with the team suspended for 2 years due to betting and spot-fixing charges in IPL 2013. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were also banned for a two-year period along with RR. Rising Pune Supergiants and Gujarat Lions have replaced them in the league.

Daredevils' support staff also includes former India cricketers TA Sekhar, S Sriram, Pravin Amre. Physios are Paul Close and Vaibhav Daga. Zubin Bharucha, who was with Rajasthan, was named as the technical director of Daredevils side.

The Daredevils will have 2 preparatory camps ahead of the season. The first one started today at Teri Ground in Delhi.

Live from the Press Conference, Rahul Dravid has been appointed as the team mentor #DWall #RahulDravid pic.twitter.com/bwp9eXhvp4

— Delhi Daredevils (@DelhiDaredevils) March 1, 2016

We welcome Paddy Upton to the #DD family as the Head Coach pic.twitter.com/VTPePe7mki

— Delhi Daredevils (@DelhiDaredevils) March 1, 2016

Rahul Dravid: "DD has a good mix of young and established players" - Live from the Press conference. #DWall pic.twitter.com/IpT1uIH4ex

— Delhi Daredevils (@DelhiDaredevils) March 1, 2016

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