Kings XI Punjab name Darren Lehmann as their coach

New Delhi: Kings XI Punjab have signed up former Australia cricketer Darren Lehmann as their new coach, the Indian Premier League franchise said on Thursday. Punjab are the third franchise that Lehmann will be associated with following stints with Rajasthan Royals and Deccan Chargers.

"I am extremely honoured to get a chance to coach Kings XI Punjab in this year's IPL. The franchise has always excited me and I look forward to working with the owners, players, support staff and fans. I'm geared up for the challenges it brings and will always encourage our team to be an entertaining and aggressive brand that people love to watch and associate with," Lehmann said.

"I'm also looking forward to working with Adam Gilchrist again and help all the players grow on and off the field. I would once again like to thank the owners for giving me this opportunity."

Punjab are the third IPL franchise that Lehmann will be associated with following stints with Rajasthan Royals and Deccan Chargers.

The club said: "We are extremely happy to have Darren Lehmann on-board as the coach of our team. Darren brings with him rich experience and immense knowledge about the game and the T20 format through his stints with IPL and other leagues. We firmly believe that he will be a great mentor to our team and will take us to new heights. We wish him all the best for his endeavours."

The 42-year-old played 27 Tests and 117 ODIs for Australia.

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