Agartala: A day after former South African cricketer Lance Klusener reached Tripura to coach different cricket teams for 100 days after signing an agreement with the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA), he visited several sports stadiums of the state to inspect infrastructural realities.
After arriving in the state on Saturday, the former cricketer said that he is not focused on provididing training to any particular team.
“I came here for all the teams. Whether cricket players, or umpires or coaches, I want to inspire and help those who seek it. I hope that my involvement will help boost the prospect of cricket here,” he said.
Klusener is supposed to stay initially for a period of 20-24 days to get acquainted with the ground realities and accordingly make a proper plan of action.
Speaking to reporters after his initial visit to different cricket grounds including the Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) stadium, Klusener said, “Its a nice outfield. One thing that amazes me about India are the nice outfields. Outfield is great. Wicket is good, the indoor facility is beautiful. I think it’s important because it rains a lot. Players always look for excuses not to perform. What’s good here is that there’s not many excuses for them not to perform.”
He said he hasn’t met the cricketers of different teams from Tripura yet and would soon get to know them.
“Players want to improve in different areas and I’m here to help with that. We’ll start tomorrow. I’m not here to take anybody’s place but I’m here to observe and help where I can,” he added.
Known for his explosive batting and right-arm fast-medium bowling, the Man of the Tournament from the 1999 World Cup said that with greater talent and dedication, one can excel and beat people from big cities and states even if there is lack of proper infrastructure.
“We can support and provide guidance but the passion should come from within. I can understand the challenges one faces as I come from a small state. You may think that it is beyond your reach to represent your own country. I came here to assist them with the best possible facilities. We can enable the players, be it men or women, to play for India or take part in IPL,” he said.
When asked about the Cricket World Cup, slated to be held later this year in India, Klusener said the hosts have the ability to become champions.