IPL 2018: Brad Hodge Credits Mujeeb Ur Rahman's Success to Captain Ravi Ashwin

Member of the Kings XI Punjab support staff, Brad Hodge, credited Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s success to captain Ravichandran Ashwin.

The new look KXIP side this season are amongst the table toppers along with Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Ashwin’s leadership fell under the radar since he got appointed as the captain without prior expertise.

However, with five wins already under their belt in the seven games played, Ashwin silenced all his critics, as his team is one of the favourites to clinch the trophy, this time around.

“Mujeeb has shown a great level of composure and confidence in his abilities. I would also give credit to Ashwin’s leadership skills. He has been very encouraging,” Brad Hodge told PTI.

Further, into the interaction, Hodge claimed communication barrier is one of the issues while dealing with the Afghan teenage sensation.

But, the Australian mentioned they have able support staff to deal with the language issue.

“Communication is one issue, but we have very capable assistant coaches, who would pass any specific message that needs to be conveyed to him,” Hodge continued.

Together with Virender Sehwag, the likes of Preity Zinta made a strong team this season during the two-day auction back in January. Hodge disclosed half the battle was won at the auction table.

“I think the secret of KXIP’s success this season has been at the auction table itself. We went into auction with a plan which was successfully executed,” the former Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals player quoted.

On Chris Gayle

After being released from the Bangalore franchise post seven seasons of association, Gayle was left unsold during the first day of the auctions.

However, Sehwag swooped in and bought Gayle at his Base price on the second day. Despite him being available in the first couple of matches, Gayle was made to warn the benches to give an opportunity to Marcus Stoinis.

Hodge believes even the best of players need a wake-up call to bring out the best in them. Gayle already has a ton and a couple of half-centuries to his name in the tournament.

“Sometimes you need to challenge the greatest in the world. Gayle had to sit out in a couple of games, and that must have hurt a champion like him. He is an absolute legend of the game,” Brad Hodge concludes.