IPL 2016: David Miller named Kings XI Punjab captain

Chandigarh, Feb 9: South African batsman David Miller has been appointed as the captain of Kings XI Punjab for the 9th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year.

IPL squads after the auction

On Tuesday (February 9), the Punjab franchise announced that 26-year-old Miller will lead the side in IPL 2016. The tournament starts on April 9. Last year, Australian George Bailey was the captain.

"I am honoured to lead the Kings XI Punjab squad this year. I would like to thank the franchise: promoters, management and all the team members for the confidence they have in me. Kings XI have assembled an exciting squad with a good mixture of youth and experience and I am really looking forward to the opportunity that lies ahead." said Miller, who was retained by the franchise before the auction. He has been with the team since season 4 (2011).

Recently, Punjab named Virender Sehwag as the mentor of the team. Sehwag had played for Punjab in 2014 and 2015. However, late last year he retired from international cricket and IPL.

Commenting on the appointment, Promoters of Kings XI Punjab said, "David Miller is one of the most talented and explosive players in contemporary cricket and we are so pleased that he has been an integral part of the team. We have complete faith in his capabilities and leadership skills and look forward to a successful season."

Sanjay Bangar, Punjab team's coach, said, "I have watched David grow as a player. He has displayed outstanding batting abilities and a cool temperament in many high-pressure situations. I am confident in his potential to lead the boys this season."

Punjab team is held and promoted by a consortium, which includes leading actress Preity Zinta, industrialists Mohit Burman, Ness Wadia and Karan Paul.

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