We can be a handful to any opposition, says Klusener

The Lyca Kovai Kings' head-coach reckons TNPL is a great platform for the local talents, and expects more cricketers from the league to feature in the next edition of the IPL.

Klusener: 'I would like to see a couple of players from my team as well getting snapped up in the IPL auction.'

"It's going to be a big week for us. We started off really well with a good chase in the first game but there's been a little bit of wobble and some rain. So, we are still focusing on how we can do better. If we can do that, then we can be a handful to any opposition,” said Lance Klusener, former South African all-rounder and Head Coach of Lyca Kovai Kings.

He said there are no easy games in TNPL. “We are taking a close look at our opposition and what they had done in the past. It is something that we are working on very seriously. We do not want to go back to Chinnaswamy Stadium having to win two games to qualify. So, the next two games are important for us.”

Pleased by his team's improvement, Klusener said, “It's nice to have worked with the team last year. There are lots of guys who have made progress in their domestic career and their averages have also improved. Now they need only a little bit of coaching and some responsibility in developing the game.”

“Also, they need to plan the game a little better. Most of these guys have played representative and State cricket and have worked with some very good coaches. So that takes the pressure off me. All I need to do is, without changing too much, add a little bit of fresh stuff here and there."

Klusener was happy that TNPL is throwing lots of opportunities for the youngsters. “We have seen a few playing the IPL last year. If TNPL can provide more players then in my point of view they are doing a fantastic job.”

“I would like to see a couple of players from my team as well getting snapped up in the IPL auction. It's a young team but we certainly have some quality players. It is important for them to learn and grow. And, that's what TNPL provides,” he added.

He said in TNPL the door is wide open for anybody to perform. “And that's what grabs the eyes, With CSK getting back what a nice thing it will be if they can tap into some local talent that this league has provided them with.”

The Kovai Kings' head-coach reckons TNPL is a great platform for the local talents, and expects more cricketers from the league to feature in the next edition of the IPL.