Published: Feb 03, 2016, 12:14 PM (IST)
Edited: Feb 03, 2016, 12:14 PM (IST)
The Rajkot franchise of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been officially named ‘Gujarat Lions‘, with left-handed Indian batsman Suresh Raina set to captain the side. The name was unveiled on Tuesday at an event in New Delhi, in which former Australian cricketer Brad Hodge was selected as the coach of the side. Rajkot and Pune are the new franchises for the next two editions of the lucrative Indian Twenty20 league, replacing the tainted Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), who have been banned for the next two editions following the sensational Lodha Panel verdict that found the officials of the two franchises guilty of unethical practices. READ: Suresh Raina appointed captain of Gujarat Lions for IPL 2016
“Suresh Raina is a remarkable player with an impeccable record in all formats of the game. His extensive experience combined with his great leadership skills will help us in putting together a winning strategy for the team,” Rajkot franchise owner Keshav Bansal was quoted as saying according to a report on Indian Express.
Coach Hodge has played for Kolkata Knight Riders, Kochi Tuskers Kerala and Rajasthan Royals in previous editions of the IPL, and is currently playing for Gemini Arabians in the ongoing inaugural edition of the Masters Champions League (MCL).
“We finalised Brad Hodge as the team coach on the basis of his successful contribution to the Australian national team and his excellent stint in the IPL. I am confident that our team will benefit immensely from his guidance and mentorship,” added Hodge.
