IPL 2018: Jacques Kallis excited to have this new recruit on the KKR roster

The Kolkata Knight Riders are gearing up for their first clash of the IPL 2018. They are set to host the Royal Challengers Bangalore at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The last time these two sides had met in the IPL, the KKR bowlers had dictated terms in the game. Coming in to this game, the KKR camp coach Jacques Kallis is optimistic about his team’s chances this season.

Earlier, Simon Katich, the batting coach of the KKR camp, had also oozed confidence about doing well this season. When KKR had hosted RCB last season, they had bundled out the opposition for just 49. Interestingly, all those KKR bowlers who bagged wickets in that game are in the RCB camp now. In any case, Jacques Kallis cited that all teams have new combinations coming in to the tournament. They will take pride from their good track record against RCB.

“Everyone’s a little bit nervous going into the first game but since there is a new look to the teams, everyone will also try to feel each other out. We have got a good record against them and we will look to continue that,” Jacques Kallis quoted.

Kallis admitted that the loss of Mitchell Starc is indeed a big one for the KKR camp. However, he looked excited at the new prospect Tom Curran. Kallis cited that Curran will be able to do the job that the KKR camp had planned for Starc.

“It is exciting stuff from Tom (Curran). Mitchell’s a big loss but we are hoping Tom can play that role,” mentioned Kallis.

On spinners playing a big role

Commenting on the game plans, Jacques Kallis admitted that the spinners will have a big role to play on the Eden Gardens track. Also, he cited that the wrist spinners have become a very handy proposition in the shortest format of the game. The mystery deliveries are tough to pick, he conceded.

“Their mystery ball is difficult to pick so they do play an important role alongside the conventional spinners. We also got a couple and they will come in handy, especially here at the Eden Gardens,” Kallis remarked.

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