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The Indian Premier League is back. And the 11th edition will have revamped teams, first-time captains, and two franchises returning to the fray after serving suspension terms. The Quint caught up with former India cricketer Aakash Chopra on the sidelines of the Delhi leg of the Star Sports Game Plan.
Here’s what he had to say about IPL 2018, scheduled to take place from 7 April to 27 May.
What are you most excited about in IPL 11?
Well, lots of things to look forward to in the coming IPL. CSK and Rajasthan Royals are making a comeback. It would be interesting to see how they pan out in the end, because there are a lot of expectations with regard to these two franchises. There’s also a lot of player movement. This was a big auction where a lot of players changed base. There are quite a few new teams and that’s exciting enough for a season ahead.
Who is the one captain you’re looking forward to watching in IPL 11?
I’m eager to see how Ravichandran Ashwin goes about doing his business. A completely unknown commodity. Kings XI Punjab have invested in him and it’ll be interesting to see how he goes about it.
Can Delhi Daredevils finally win an IPL title?
Delhi’s chances are quite good. And I’m not saying this because I’m standing in Delhi and Dil Dilli hai, but because of the way they’ve picked their side. They’ve covered almost all the bases. They’ve got a wonderful captain in place and there is no reason for them not to finish in the top four, if not top two. This could be their season of reckoning and change. Quite a few times they’ve been the bridesmaidsm but never the bride. But maybe this time round.
Quite a few former cricketers are coming in as coaches this year. What do you think of Ashish Nehra as an RCB coach?
Nehra ji is a dear friend and I know that he’ll make a great coach because that’s something very close to his heart. Even when he was still playing, he assumed that responsibility without being asked. He mentored the younger ones and was there for them all the time. Putting an arm around a younger kid and telling them what to do, what not to do. He’s the kind of guy you would want by your side come what may. Royal Challengers Bangalore, Virat Kohli, well done – you’ve gone for the right guy.
Which young players are you looking forward to watching in IPL 2018?
Quite a few actually. A couple of them are in Kolkata Knight Riders and they will get opportunities. Kamlesh Nagarkoti is my favourite pick. He is very good and has got the potential. The other guy is Shubhman Gill. Once again with the same franchise.
Will IPL be a challenge for India’s Under-19 stars?
It is a huge challenge, a huge step up for anyone who has played first-class cricket or just under-19 cricket because IPL is a different beast that is very difficult to conquer and neutralise. They will find out that it’s a huge step up. But that’s where we’ll get to know if they have it in them to take it to the next level or not. But don’t be too critical, don’t be too disappointed. If they fail a few times, they deserve a longer rope. Once they get an opportunity, just keep them there for a few games and see what they can do. I have full faith in their abilities. I think they’ll make the graduation to the next level in this IPL itself.
Mayank Agarwal has had a great domestic season, but can he thrive in IPL 11?
Fantastic domestic season but he’s in Kings XI Punjab, and may or may not get enough opportunities. Team selection is not just about justice, it’s about balance. While you want Mayank Agarwal to play because of the kind of form he’s in. But if you have an Aaron Finch, Chris Gayle, KL Rahul and also Karun Nair, how do you fit in Mayank Agarwal in that jigsaw puzzle. So he might miss out. But if misses out, so be it.
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