Gary Kirsten: We made a decision to not retain anyone

Gary Kirsten

With less than a week to go for the 7th edition of the Indian Premier League, Delhi Daredevils coach Gary Kirsten has defended the team management’s decision to approach the season with a new looking squad. He has also stressed on the importance of his squad members getting to know each other ahead of the big event.

Daredevils, deciding not to retain any of their players, built their entire squad by buying players in the IPL 2014 Auctions held in February. More than leaving out Virender Sehwag, it was their decision to drop David Warner that raised a few eyebrows given the form he is in.

Kirsten, explaining the strategy, said: “At the auction we made a decision to select a new squad and not retain anyone from last year. We are looking towards working with a new squad. Don’t know whether it’s a right decision or not but that’s what we have gone for. Guys are looking forward to being together. Eight days before the match, it is an important time to connect. They have started connecting and are getting to know each other. They are also enjoying each other’s company.”

He added: “IPL requires a lot more intensity. It’s a new challenge for me and I am looking forward to it. It’s good to be back in India personally. I always knew that I was going to come back sometime. I love watching T20 cricket and haven’t missed many matches.”

Kirsten refused to answer any questions relating to Yuvraj’ Singh’s horror show in the finals of the T20 World Cup 2014.