There will never be another CSK: Bravo

The all-rounder will be representing Gujarat Lions in the ninth edition of the Indian Premier League starting next week. Bravo admitted that he would miss playing for CSK. “It is nice to be back in Chennai. I missed the city a lot and I miss playing for the city’s franchisee,” he said.

Bravo said he is excited to be part of a new team and urged the fans to support Gujarat Lions. “There will never be another CSK. I hope the fans will support Gujarat Lions as we have five players from CSK in Raina, McCullum, Jadeja, du Plessis and myself,” he added.

The ‘Champion DJ’ said he would miss playing under the leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni and added that it would be Suresh Raina’s best chance to shine as a captain for Gujarat Lions. “Any player will miss playing for Dhoni. He is one of the best captains in the world. 

However, it is a good opportunity for Raina to show his skills. He has got potential to be good leader and as players we will support him,” Bravo added. 

Bravo dismissed claims that IPL would lose its intensity with the addition of new teams. “IPL is a prestigious tournament. Every team will want to be IPL champions. There will always be competitive teams. We shouldn’t forget that all players have played in league before, what is new is that we just have two new teams,” he added. 

Bravo said it wasn’t of any concern if opponents chose to mock the West Indies’ celebration style. Bravo’s ‘champion dance’ was mimicked by England players during their team’s World T20 final last Sunday while Darren Sammy’s ‘baby dance step’ was mocked by Rajasthan Royals’ Brad Hodge a couple of years ago. “We play with a lot of passion and style. We love to entertain the crowd. If other teams choose to mock us or follow us, it is up to them. We play the game with true spirit. Our focus is always on the fans and cricket,” he added. 

The new coaching camp will be at Amir Mahal Grounds in Chennai from May 17 to 29. Former cricketers Herschelle Gibbs, Lance Klusener, Courtney Walsh, Nicky Boje, Desmond Haynes, Davy Jacobs and Derek Perera apart from Bravo would be part of the coaching team. “I would like the kids to be a part of this success at a tender age. It is an opportunity to get coached by legends of the game and we can make new champions from Chennai too,” Bravo added.