Well the IPL has officially kickstarted with the Auction ,how exciting!As you are aware,the Team is focusing their efforts on 2 senior batsmen, as we believe we have one of the strongest bowling attacks with strength in depth(the technicalities I’ve been told!;).

Last year was disappointing for us but a learning curve, but we didn’t see any need to fundamentally change our strategy, of blending experience with youth. We have some exciting new talent for 2010 as well, and we used the auction to supplement our squad - although there were no definite ‘must buys’ this year. Most importantly, our focus this year has been to work with many of our existing squad. Indeed, Darren Berry is currently in India.

The Batting needs some additional experience to support Graeme Smith and as a result we have two international class batsmen who can provide the platform for other players to perform around, but also have the potential of winning games themselves. I am sure Rajasthan Royals might have surprised some with our selection of Damien Martyn (he retired 18 months ago), but he was a truly world class top order batsman that others will learn a lot from. Our inspirational captain has a hunch about Damien and when it comes to cricket we are very happy to trust Shane Warnes “hunches”!(D)amien!!:)Adam Voges again is someone we are kicked about ,great statistics in the past and a great price! Can’t wait for this squad to come together.

More importantly,As for all the noise about our Pakistani players, it is a shame that we will(once again)miss some of the best players in the world. We are in constant contact with them,and we understand and empathise with their hurt in the current scenario.. But I can say THIS with complete confidence from. Our end that it wasn’t a contrived attempt to insult or ignore..It is a huge loss for US to lose such quality players some of the Best in 20-20 cricket. However, for such a long tournament we have to be completely convinced on player availability ie: NOT just their dates but their presence in India, as providing security is a huge concern, with threats from some Lunatic fringes..we could not afford that risk as we value our players!!it was a catch 22 situation for us. Wish we(indians and pakistanis )could handle the situation a little sensitively and with a bit of maturity and request Journos to not politicise it any further. Don’t we have enough on our hands to handle already!??!let’s not make the situation any more volatile.People in both countries  love good Cricket and there’s nothin bigger than the sport. let’s grow up and move forward. Phew!I’ve said my piece.Stay positive.. it works..everytime!:)

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