India's ODI specialist Shikhar Dhawan recently said he was excited to play under Mayank Agarwal's leadership in the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhawan opined that it would be a big responsibility to open with the right-hander if he gets the opportunity.
The Punjab Kings (PBKS) bought the flamboyant left-hander for a hefty sum of INR 8.25 crore at the IPL auction last month. Last season, the 36-year-old had a brilliant run when he scored 587 runs in 16 games playing for Delhi Capitals (DC).
DC released him, although he has been performing brilliantly since the last few seasons, which was a surprising move nonetheless.
"I am approaching this with a positive mindset as playing under Mayank will be good for me. We have a strong team, and the youngsters are very talented. We hope to produce something special this season," Dhawan told NDTV.
"If I get a chance to open with Mayank, it would be a big responsibility for me, and I am prepared for the challenge," he added further.
PBKS retained Agarwal for INR 12 crores, alongside Arshdeep Singh ahead of the mega-auctions. Later, the Karnataka opener was appointed as captain of the Mohali-based franchise. This came in the aftermath of ex-skipper KL Rahul's request to release him ahead of IPL retentions.
Agarwal now has the added responsibility of scoring runs and ensuring his team performs consistently and end the drought of the team's first major IPL title.
PBKS face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Mumbai on 27th March in their first game of tournament.