IPL 2018: R Ashwin announced captain of Kings XI Punjab

Indian cricket team's ace off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin Monday was named the skipper of IPL franchise Kings XI Punjab, for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) tournament. 

The announcement was made during a Facebook Live session by Virender Sehwag.

During the IPL Auctions in January, Ashwin was bought by the Punjab side for a whopping 7.6 crore, after Chennai Super Kings did not retain the spinner. 

Speaking on his appointment, Ashwin said, “I feel honoured to be trusted with the responsibility of leading such a talented bunch of cricketers.” 

“I am confident of bringing out the best out of team mates. This is indeed a proud moment for me,” he added.

On being asked if he feels any kind of pressure, Ashwin said, “There is no additional pressure on me as such. I first led my state side in first class cricket when I was 21. I have done it in the past and I am sure that I will enjoy the challenge.”

Ashwin previously played for CSK till 2015, and in the last two years appeared for Rising Pune Supergiant. 

In 111 IPL matches so far, Ashwin has picked 100 wickets at an average of 24.99 and at an economy rate of 6.55.