CLT20: Brian Lara to travel with Trinidad squad as 'mentor'

West Indies batting legend Brian Lara will travel with the Trinidad and Tobago squad to India for the upcoming Champions League Twenty20 which begins next week.

The former Windies captain will not be a formal part of the team management but is visiting India in a dual role as a tourism ambassador and Trinidad team mentor.

The team is leaving for the sub-continent Monday after its final warm-up matches Thursday and Friday.

"I have an open door policy and while I am in India, I will be looking to assist Denesh Ramdin and his team, as much as I can," said Lara Thursday.

"The role is not official but I will be meeting with the board to finalise my role with the boys. Once is red, white and black, you are wearing, it is all about Trinidad and Tobago and I am here to assist in that regard."

Lara had performed a similar role as unofficial adviser to the T&T franchise during the recently concluded Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

"It's an honour to be part of the upcoming trip. I'm happy to be associated with Trinidad & Tobago's participation. We have a team that will make us proud," Lara said.

"I am just going to be there, not a part of management but as a former cricketer. I am willing to lend a hand in any way I can. I hope I will have a chance to interact with the guys while in India and in whatever way I can help."

Trinidad will play one warm-up game before opening their campaign against the Brisbane Heat in Ranchi on September 22.