Kochi: Kochi IPL team coach Geoff Lawson on Wednesday said the entire team would be announced by March.
Speaking to reporters after the IPL trials in which 43 players took part, he said ` the team will be announced by March. We will do a thorough research... a camp was held in Mumbai also`.
Lawson did not specify any names who are likely to make it to the Kochi IPL team from the selection trials here but said he was `impressed with the local talent. They look like it`. Kerala cricket is in good hands.
On Pakistan players not being part of the IPL matches, Lawson, a former Pak coach, said that was a loss, they should have been part of IPL.
On India`s chances in the World Cup, Lawson said `if they can avoid someone like Sreesanth, India should be a very good team. India is a strong team`, he said.
South Africa, Sri Lanka, England and India are the teams which are likely to reach the semi finals. But never rule out Australia, he said.
On the captain of the Kochi IPL team, Lawson said Mahela Jayewardene was the likely name.
Asked about the name of the Kochi team, Lawson said `experts are discussing...`
Lawson, who also visited the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium here said it was a `wonderful partnership with Kerala cricket Association for the IPL matches here.
Kochi franchisee owner Vivek Venugopal was also present.
PTI
