Kolkata: Indian Premier League (IPL) fans, get ready to welcome back Kevin Pietersen. The tall veteran English batsman is all set to join the tenth season of the Indian Premier League this year, but before you get very excited and set your expectations high, it’s a new role for which he is returning. Instead of putting on the jersey and pads, the ex-English skipper is preparing to hold the mic inside an air conditioned room. Yes you got that right! He is going to don the role of a commentator and panelist. Also, joining him would be Australian veteran Michael Clarke.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released a list of commentators for the upcoming cash rich tournament which comprised Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar, Sanjay Manjrekar and Isa Guha. Joining them are rookies in this field, Clarke and Pietersen. Surprisingly though, the list didn’t carry the name of famous and familiar commentator Harsha Bhogle. However, it is expected that his name will be included in the list later.
Pietersen, who has played for teams like the Royal Challengers Bangalore, the Delhi Daredevils and the Rising Pune Supergiant. But unlike every year when he looked to contribute through his willow, this time the 36-year old will have to contribute through the microphone. Just after his name was included, Pietersen has expressed that he wants to bring fresh ideas in the new role he plays. He has decided to bring in the modern day thought process related to shorter formats during his analysis. “I shred the commentary box with Michael Clarke for Channel 9 during South Africa vs Australia series in November. We had a wonderful time. Pup (Clarke) and I had just come out of international cricket. I am still playing in terms of franchise cricket and we will be able to bring the modern day thought pattern in a fairly fresh way,” said Pietersen.
Pietersen who has played tournaments like the IPL, the Big Bash and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has no grievance that he won’t be able to play. Instead, he seemed to be more than just comfortable holding the mic. He laughed and said, “I would still be in a wonderful position that I am able to share my knowledge of the game on TV. I will not be jealous of not being able to play. It will be lot cooler in the commentary box.”
Pietersen however will not be present for the entire season as he will be away adhering to family commitments. He will be seen during the first, fourth and the final weeks of the IPL 2017. We wish you all the best KP!
(With inputs from Hindustan Times)