Suresh Raina to lead Rajkot IPL team named Gujarat Lions

Former Chennai Super Kings player Suresh Raina was chosen ahead of former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum to lead the new Rajkot IPL team that was named Gujarat Lions. It was also announced that the side will be coached by former Australian batsman Brad Hodge.
The next edition of the Twenty20 league will be held from April 9 to May 29 and it will have Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Raina play opposite each other for the first time in the short history of the tournament.

Intex Technologies owner Keshav Bansal, who had invested in the Rajkot franchise, had picked Raina as the first choice followed by Ravindra Jadeja in the IPL draft that was held in December last year. All-rounders James Faulkner and Dwayne Bravo are also set to play for the new franchise that was acquired by Intex Technologies for a period of two years.

The auction for this edition is scheduled to be held on Saturday.

Former India opener Virender Sehwag was on Monday appointed mentor of the Kings XI Punjab team for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL).

In his new role, Sehwag will work closely with head coach Sanjay Bangar and would be responsible for guiding and motivating the squad, a statement from the Kings XI franchise stated.

“Virender Sehwag has been an integral part of the KXIP squad over the last two seasons and understands the dynamics of the team very well. With him stepping in as the mentor, the team will immensely benefit from his guidance and advice,” Kings XI’s head coach Bangar said.  “His knowledge of the game will certainly help in establishing a strong team and bring out the best in all the players. I am sure that Sehwag will prove to be a great mentor and his presence will be extremely appreciated by the squad.”
“I am extremely happy to continue my journey with Kings XI Punjab. Given the relationship and camaraderie I share with the squad, management and promoters, it feels like I am with my extended family. Being a part of KXIP has always been a special experience and I am looking forward to the upcoming season in my new role,” said Sehwag.