Ravichandran Ashwin to lead Kings XI Punjab

New Delhi, Feb 26: Team India Senior off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was today named the captain of the IPL side Kings XI Punjab, which also has Yuvraj Singh and Chris Gayle in their ranks.

The 31-year-old was purchased for Rs. 7.6 crore by the Punjab franchise during the auctions held in January, with the Chennai Super Kings, the side Ashwin played for until 2015, not retaining him.

"There was also talk in the management about making Yuvraj captain. Yuvraj is a great friend, but in cricketing matters, you keep friendships aside and we all felt Ashwin will be a great leader for us", Sehwag was quoted as saying.

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 teammates. This is indeed a proud moment for me," said Ashwin