Zaheer took seven wickets in as many matches for Delhi Daredevils last season © BCCI
Zaheer Khan has been appointed as captain of the Delhi Daredevils for the 2016 IPL season.
Zaheer joined Daredevils in 2015; he played seven of the team’s 14 matches, taking seven wickets at an average of 22.28 and an economy-rate of 6.45. He described his appointment as a “huge honour”.
“It is a huge honour to captain Delhi Daredevils,” Zaheer said. “To get this responsibility is a way for me to give back to the game. I firmly believe that with the players currently involved we have the makings of a very good side, a young side that can surprise people. The potential of this group of players is immense and it is now up to us as players to turn that potential into consistent performances.”
Daredevils’ team mentor Rahul Dravid was full of praise for Zaheer, and expressed high hopes for the bowler’s forthcoming stint as captain. “Zaheer has been a leader for a very long time. Anyone who has followed Indian cricket will know the impact Zak has had,” Dravid said. “Zak has a big personality, but it is the steel, focus and drive behind the outward confidence which I think he will bring to the captaincy and that I am sure will inspire the rest of the team. He has the respect of the dressing room and the franchise is proud to have him as our captain.”
Zaheer had retired from international cricket last October, but he had last played for India in February 2014.
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Source: ESPN Crickinfo