Mumbai Indians coach John Wright is confident of retaining the Indian Premier League (IPL) title, saying he is happy with the strength of his squad.
The Mumbai franchise enjoyed a remarkable 2013 year by winning their maiden IPL crown as well as triumphing in the Champions League competition in October.
They open the tournament against 2012 winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
“When I go and pick our final eleven that team sheet will be strong and that’s the thing that counts,” said Wright, whose team practised at Zayed Cricket Stadium last evening.
“We have strong players for back up and I’m very happy with the strength of the squad in whatever team I put. We will play with passion and always go out trying to win the game.
“We did a brilliant job last year and we are keen to have another successful IPL. We are lucky to have Harbajhan Singh and Pragyan Ojha and a couple of youngsters fighting for positions (in the spin department) as well.”
The 59-year-old, who said the team was “excited” to be playing in the UAE, is braced for a tough challenge.
“There’s no pressure on us this year. Having won the first IPL and the Champions League title, we don’t think about defending it, we think about winning it again.
“It’s a tough and tight league and all games will be important. We look forward to every game and all the teams have strong players. There will be no easy games which makes this a great league.”
This year, Mumbai Indians have been strengthened with the inclusion of Australian Mike Hussey and New Zealand’s all-rounder Corey Anderson, who holds the record for the fastest ODI century. Their presence will add more firepower to a team that has Keiron Pollard, Lasith Malinga, Harbajhan Singh as well as captain Rohit Sharma who were all retained.
Following his impressive form at the World Twenty20, as Sri Lanka reigned supreme in Bangladesh, Wright was delighted to have Malinga in his side.
“Lasith will be here fresh from his success as captain, so it will be a huge plus and we are all very pleased for him.”
One major absentee from last year’s squad will be Sachin Tendulkar, who retired from the game last year. The Indian legend was named as Mumbai Indians 'icon' on Thursday and he will continue to guide the young players in the side. Wright confirmed Tendulkar will be present for their games in UAE.
“Sachin will be here and is a big part of the franchise. And it will be great to see him again.”
The former New Zealand opener believes the team’s leadership is in able hands with Rohit Sharma at the helm.
“Rohit did a marvellous job last year. Leading us with the bat and being tactically aware. He is a smart captain.”
Among the teams that practised in Abu Dhabi were Kolkata Knight Riders, who have recently appointed Mike Horn on a short-term deal.
The South Africa-born adventurer proved to be an inspiration as he motivated the Indian team members to their 2011 World Cup.
