Zaheer Khan to lead Delhi Daredevils in VIVO IPL 2016

Published - 28 Mar 2016, 15:43 IST | Updated - 28 Mar 2016, 15:43 IST

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IPL franchise Delhi Daredevils, which undergoes massive changes every year has made another big change in the team set-up. The franchise has announced Zaheer Khan as the skipper for the 2016 VIVO IPL Season.

Team Mentor Rahul Dravid looked happy about Zaheer’s appointment as the leader of the team. Speaking about the appointment, Dravid praised his former team-mate for his confidence, stating that he will infuse confidence in the team.

“Zaheer has been a leader for a very long time. Anyone who has followed Indian cricket will know the impact Zak has had. He has always proven himself to be one of the leaders. Zak has a big personality, but it is the steel, focus and drive behind the outward confidence which I think he will bring to the captaincy and that I am sure will inspire the rest of the team. He has the respect of the dressing room and the franchise is proud to have him as our captain. I would like to congratulate him on the appointment and wish him, and the rest of the squad all the very best.”

Zaheer himself was delighted with his new role. He said that this opportunity has brought given back the game to him.

“It is a huge honour to captain Delhi Daredevils. To get this responsibility is a way for me to get back to the game. I firmly believe that with the players currently involved we have the makings of a very good side, a young side that can surprise people. The potential of this group of players is immense and it is now up to us as players to turn that potential into consistent performances,” Zaheer said.

India’s best left-arm pacer ever, Zaheer retired from international cricket last year but had indicated that he would continue playing in the Indian Premier League. Zak played 92 Tests with 311 wickets, whereas he scalped 282 ODI wickets in 200 matches. He also played 17 T20 Internationals for India.

The 37-year-old is also currently working with Star Sport as a cricket commentator and analyst and made his debut in the media field during the ongoing ICC World T20 2016.