Virender Sehwag reveals the reason behind selecting R Ashwin over Yuvraj Singh

When Kings XI Punjab successfully secured the services of Yuvraj Singh, Aaron Finch, and David Miller, it looked quite obvious that the side would opt for one of the trio for their leadership role. However, Sehwag stunned everyone to hand over the captaincy to Ashwin. The former opener has now clarified his decision amidst many raised eyebrows by stating that he has always wanted a bowler to lead the side.

"I always thought that a bowler should be made the captain because I was a big fan of Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Kapil Dev,” Sehwag told Kings XI Punjab website.

"I thought a bowler would be the best candidate for our team's captaincy. Yuvraj was also there in our minds. But a lot of votes from our support staff and owners went to Ashwin," he added.

Ashwin has also been known for his intelligence and his ability to lead the bowlers when things seem to go out of hand. His intelligence kept him at the No.1 Test bowler rankings for a long time and he expects to use that experience in the new phase of career as well.

"Being a bowler captain, I will be able to understand the bowlers and field changes. There are so many numbers and stats that can be crunched in T20s. I believe in a certain amount of preparation before a match. I also believe my tactical and strategic sharpness which might stand me in good stead. I think I have got enough experience inside the dressing room to be able to fall back on to with those decisions," he added.