Kolkata Knight Riders has announced the return of former India pacer Laxmipathy Balaji as their bowling coach ahead of the Indian Premier League 2017.
He replaces Wasim Akram, who said “professional commitments and time constraints” had prevented him from being with the team this year.
Making the announcement, KKR CEO said: “It’s great to welcome Bala back to the KKR family. He was an integral part of KKR from 2011-13 and played a key role in helping KKR win the championship in 2012”.
Meanwhile, commenting on his new role as bowling coach of KKR, Balaji said: “I had thoroughly enjoyed my stint as a player for KKR and I am delighted to be back to the franchise that I have admired”.
Balaji has been a highly revered name in the IPL, having previously represented three franchises – Chennai Super Kings, Kings XI Punjab and Kolkata Knight Riders.
The 34-year-old, who hails from Tamil Nadu, played 73 matches in his IPL career after debuting in the inaugural season for the Chennai Super Kings.
