ICL players to play for KKR in practice matches

Kolkata:

In a bid to earn a contract with the Kolkata Knight Riders, former Indian Cricket League players Deep Dasgupta, Rohan Gavaskar and G Vignesh will play for the IPL side in their practice matches against visiting Champions League Twenty20 teams in Gurgaon from October 1-7.

Former Bengal captain Dasgupta said he would turn out for the Kolkata IPL side in the three practice games, provided he gets the Cricket Association of Bengal permission.

"My availability for the matches will depend on CAB. I am in talks with Knight Riders and it's still in early stage. I am yet to sign a contract," Dasgupta said.

The wicketkeeper-batsman said he was looking forward to playing under Ganguly, who is likely to return as KKR captain.

"It will be a good exposure in Knight Riders and I am looking forward to play under 'Dada' (Ganguly) once again. I hope to contribute for the team," Dasgupta said.

KKR, which is expected to announce its coach's name soon after John Buchanan's ouster, will play Sussex, New South Wales and Orange Free States in the practice matches.

Apart from the trio, who are among the ICL players to return to the official fold after BCCI's amnesty offer, it is learnt that the Kolkata franchise is in talks with Bengal pacer Eklakh Ahmed.

Former India captain Ganguly had earlier said the ICL players were on the team's radar.

KKR has already signed up Tamil Nadu pacer Vignesh, who represented Chennai Superstars in the ICL.