Indian Premier League 2017: Gujarat Lions rope in Mohammad Kaif as assistant coach

Courtesy Twitter (@MohammadKaif)

New Delhi: Mohammad Kaif dons a new role in the Indian Premier League, as he has been appointed as assistant coach for Gujarat Lions. This is his first spell as a coach in his 19 years long career and will be assisting the Aussie coach Brad Hodge.

Kaif confirmed the news through his official Twitter account.

"Glad to be a part of such an exciting group of boys and a wonderful management. Looking forward to ensure #GameMaariChhe," he said.

Glad to be a part of such an exciting group of boys and a wonderful management. Looking forward to ensure #GameMaariChhe . https://t.co/bFuJchL8SA

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) February 16, 2017

Kaif had a great stint with both the Indian U-19 and the senior team. He is the first U-19 Indian captain to win the World Cup and under his leadership, India remained unbeaten in the tournament and lifted the trophy against Sri Lanka in 2000.

The right-handed batsman made a real impact in the 2002 Natwest Trophy final against England. He played a mature and balanced game and won the match for India by scoring an unbeaten 87 off 75 balls. Apart from his batting skills, he is regarded as one of the best Indian fielders with tremendous catches and single hand run-outs. In 13 Tests and 125 ODIs for Team India, he scored 3377 runs which included 3 centuries and 20 half centuries.

The cricketer hailing from UP also played in the IPL and won the inaugural season with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in 2008 and later moved to Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Gujarat Lions have a great squad which is being led by Indian batsman Suresh Raina. The team also comprises world class players in Brendon McCullum, James Faulkner, and Aaron Finch.

The Lions, who made their debut in 2016, had a great campaign in their debut season where they topped the table, but lost in both the qualifiers.