Newlyappointed KKR captain Karthik calls Kohli his inspiration

MUMBAI: As individuals, Dinesh Karthik and Virat Kohli are poles apart. While Kohli is known for his aggression on the field, Karthik likes to keep a calm demeanour in the middle.

However, soon after being named the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, Karthik said that when it comes to inspiration, he looks no further than the Indian skipper.

“Virat Kohli leads from the front. He sets an example with his own performances. That is something I would like to do as well — lead by an example rather than by too many words,” said the Tamil Nadu cricketer after the Kolkata team announced him as the captain of the side. Talking about his mild image on the field, the wicketkeeper batsman said he likes to show aggression in his own way.

“By nature, I am not that aggressive outwardly. But from inside, I am very aggressive. I like to do small things on the field that really matter — like looking into the eyes of your rivals. I love to be there in tough situations and face the heat. I am not going to stop players who want to express their aggression on the field, although I would try to control them to ensure they don’t get fined.”

VENKATESH PRASAD KXIP BOWLING COACH

MOHALI : Venkatesh Prasad was appointed bowling coach of Kings XI Punjab, barely a couple of days after he resigned as the chief of junior national selection panel.

Former Australia player Brad Hodge is team’s head coach.

KARTHIK SAID THAT WHEN IT COMES TO INSPIRATION, HE LOOKS NO FURTHER THAN THE INDIAN SKIPPER.