Talk to Brett Lee about the IPL and the excitement in his voice is all too palpable. Talking to Hindustan Times, the Australian pacer on Wednesday said he was 'really looking forward' to be a part of Team Mohali and enjoy the experience.
Excerpts:
What are your thoughts on playing in the IPL?
I have always maintained that Twenty20 cricket in general, and the IPL, in particular, is a win-win situation.
I am really looking forward to be a part of the whole experience. Playing in a team with players from different countries, and cultures, should be quite enjoyable.
And what about the team you'll be playing for — Mohali?
I was very pleased to learn that I would be playing for Mohali. The people there are warm, genial and I have had enjoyed myself whenever I have been there. The Punjabi community is a lovely community, and I can't wait to go there and imbibe the warmth.
The Australian players can play in the IPL for only a couple of weeks. Don't you think that this stipulation is a dampener?
Well, as things stand now, that's how much time we have.
{{/usCountry}}Well, as things stand now, that's how much time we have.
{{/usCountry}}Undoubtedly it would have been great to play the whole tournament, but that is not looking possible at the moment.
Having said that, though, I think the IPL is here to stay.
But the Aussies will surely give our all in the 4-5 matches they will play.
How do you look at the Mohali outfit?
I think we have quite a strong team with some very good players in it. Team Mohali should be right up there, challenging for the title come the end of the IPL. It should be quite competitive, though.
Finally, away from the IPL, what are your thoughts on the issue of doing away with sledging in cricket? Would it, in a way, take a lot away from the game?
I think it's very important that players all over the world understand that there is a line between banter and sledging, which should not be crossed.
Sledging of any form — either racial vilification or using abusive language — has to be clamped down on. But as long as that line is not crossed, a little bit of chatter is fine.