Kings XI Punjab head coach Anil Kumble believes Chris Gayle can help develop the team’s younger players during IPL 2020.
He wants the West Indies and IPL batting star to use his experience both on and off the field during this year’s tournament.
It is hoped 40-year-old Gayle, who bagged 480 runs in 2019, can be a mentor for others.
Kumble said: “Chris has a major role even as player and even otherwise.
“His leadership, his experience, the youngsters look up to him. It is not just Chris the batsman we are looking at but Chris in a leadership role in terms of his contribution to developing young players. I want him to be active on the mentorship role.”
Kumble Wants More Indian Coaches
Kumble also believes it is only a matter of time until more IPL coaches are Indian.
He is currently the only Indian in the role, with the other franchises choosing foreign head coaches.
He added: “I would like to see more Indian coaches in the IPL. It is not a true reflection of the Indian resources. I would want to see many Indians being part of the IPL as head coaches.
“It is a bit of an irony — one Indian as head coach. I think at some point in time there will be a lot more Indian coaches.”
Kumble is confident KXIP can do well at IPL 2020, which starts in the UAE on September 19.
“The reason I have taken up (the role) is that we have a great squad to go all the way.
“My role is preparing the team to achieve success. I don't want to go too far ahead, one game at a time.
“It is about holding nerves. There will be moments, IPL it is not a smooth ride always. We need to focus on what we can achieve, not worry about other teams. We are confident we would be able to achieve that.”
