Young Delhi Daredevils opening batsman Manjot Kalra is ready to play IPL 2018. The 19-years old left-handed batsman believes that the IPL 2018 is an opportunity for him to learn from big cricketers.
In the 2018 ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup, Kalra played an important role for the India U-19 to win the crown for the record fourth time. In that youth tournament, Kalra scored total 252 runs with the average of 84.00. He was the hero in the final match against Australia where the chasing team opener played an unbeaten 101 runs knock and secured an 8-wicket victory for India.
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During that U-19 WC, Kalra was bought by Delhi Daredevils in the 2018 IPL Auction for INR 20 lakhs.
The 19-years old claimed that he is not nervous for the upcoming IPL. He said, “I am not nervous about the upcoming tournament. It is up to team’s management whether I get a chance to play or not but I see it as an opportunity to learn every day from such big players.”
While Delhi Daredevils has full of experienced cricketers, it will be tough for Kalra to get a chance in playing XI. Knowing that, Kalra commented, “If I get a chance to perform, at whatever position, in whatever role the team management decides, I will give my 100 percent to the team.”
Gautam Gambhir, who has won two IPLs as Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) captain, will lead the Delhi franchise side in this season. Speaking about Gambhir’s captaincy, Kalra said, “Gautam Gambhir is someone who gives more than 100 percent of his efforts. He was so good for KKR, he handled the team brilliantly. It’s a great opportunity for me to play under his captaincy.
“During Ranji Trophy, he backed up the youngsters and he motivated them to come forward and express themselves. So, it is a good chance for me to play under him.”
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Among the current IPL teams, Delhi Daredevils is the only team who never reached the final of any IPL tournament. However, Kalra believes that they are the well-balanced team in this season and expecting to do well this time.
He concluded, “We have a well-balanced team this season. We have a number of great bowling options, and we also have a few all-rounders such as Chris Morris, who has been brilliant in IPL so far. So, we are expecting a great season for the Delhi Daredevils ahead.”
