Kings XI Punjab have good mix of players: Sangakara

Mohali (Punjab), March 10: Newly appointed captain of Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) Kumara Sangakara feels that despite injuries to Yuvraj Singh and Brett Lee, he has a good mix of players to choose from in the forthcoming third season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

"We have a very strong team this season with some of the best cricketers of the world. The team is here to win and we have a wonderful choice as there is a good mix of both international and domestic players," Sangakara, told reporters.

He added: "Shaun Marsh, Simon Katich and James Hopes will join the team soon. Coach Tom Moody is currently busy with Western Australia team and he is expected to join us on March 15 at Bangalore."

Sangakara had replaced star player Yuvraj Singh, who led the team in the previous two editions of IPL.

Yuvraj, who is recuperating from the wrist injury, is still not sure of playing in the KXIP's first match against Delhi Daredevils Saturday.

"I can't say anything at the moment whether I am playing in Saturday's game or not," Yuvraj said.

However, Yuvraj seemed quite relieved as now he would be free from the captaincy pressure.

"When you are leading a team then you have pressure on your mind as you have to simultaneously think in various directions and you have to decide on your strategies in various departments. But now I would be able to fully concentrate only on my batting," he said.

Injured Australian pacer Brett Lee is also not confident of playing in Saturday's game.

"Right now it's quite difficult to say anything," Lee said.

KXIP Wednesday unveiled its fan club, KXIP Lion's Den, and humorous animation films of their mascots - Rocky and Ranjit - for their fans.

"Our fan club aims to bring exclusive benefits to the KXIP enthusiasts who take pleasure in being associated with us. On the other hand, Rocky and Ranjit, our mascots are yet another channel to reach out to our fans and bring a smile to their faces," said Preity Zinta, chairperson and promoter of KXIP.

KXIP management and players Wednesday also pledged their support for HIV-affected patients by wearing special red bands to support and create awareness about AIDS.